Ventricular Fibrillation: A Pediatric Problem provides a comprehensive review of this uncommon disorder in children. In 10 sections containing 25 chapters, 27 experts present the latest information on this subject, beginning with discussing the biochemical behavior of the neonatal heart in comparison with the adult heart, and discussing animal models that mimic pediatric ventricular fibrillation.
The book contains quite a bit of repetition, but proper emphasis is placed on differentiating the manifestations of ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation in adults from those found in children. Good reviews of the genetics of long QT and Brugada syndromes are provided by Jeffrey Towbin, and other chapters provide descriptions of the most common congenital heart defects associated with these arrhythmias.
In particular, the subject of devices and external defibrillation is very well covered, including discussion of the technical aspects and current federal regulations affecting their use. The summary of the common problem of syncope in children is also well done.
Overall, the book is a useful resource for cardiologists, pediatricians, and family physicians.