Combining 3D SONAR with High Resolution Imaging to Improve Vision in Atrial Fibrillation Ablation

Abstract

Real-time, accurate imaging of improperly functioning tissue that causes atrial fibrillation (AF) is essential for successful catheter ablation procedures. Ablation procedures and success rates may be improved by overlaying intracardiac echocardiography with high resolution cardiac imaging. Data extracted from previous research reports that current pharmacological agents do not address the principal cause of AF. Unlike medication, catheter ablation resolves the issue by treating AF’s source. Therefore, catheter ablation is the better alternative. However, while catheter ablation is preferable to medication, the detail and accuracy of anatomical visualizations used to guide the catheter can be inconsistent. While real time guidance technology updates, the visibility quality is limited. However, detailed preliminary imaging does not accurately reflect the latest changes. This paper discusses the current limitations of catheter ablation and proposes real-time three-dimensional Sound Navigation and Ranging (SONAR) imaging paired with high-resolution cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) as a novel tool to improve live-imaging localizations and resolution for cardiac ablation procedures.