Non-fluoroscopic catheter visualization using MediGuide™ technology: experience from the first 600 procedures

Abstract

A novel cardiovascular navigation system known as MediGuide™ (MG) which allows non-fluoroscopic catheter tracking over a background of pre-recorded cine loops was recently introduced. This system allows significant reduction of fluoroscopy exposure which is one of the potentially harmful aspects of today's electrophysiological procedures such as ablations or device implantations. We provide a summary of recently published studies related to this new technological platform and describe our experience from the first 600 MG procedures at our institution.After reviewing the currently available publications in the field of MG-supported EP procedures, we describe the workflows for (1) ablation of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), atrial fibrillation (AF), and ventricular tachycardia using MG-enabled diagnostic and ablation catheters, as well as (2) implant of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices using sensor-equipped delivery tools including sheaths, sub-selectors, and guidewires.As shown in several studies [5-9], MG procedures resulted in similar efficacy as conventional cases but with a significant reduction in fluoroscopy time and dose. In particular, for SVT ablations, the median fluoroscopy time using the MG technology was 0.5 ± 1.4min compared to 10.2 ± 9.6min in conventional fluoroscopic settings. Similar reductions were demonstrated for AF ablation procedures from 25min in conventional settings with electroanatomical mapping systems and live x-ray to 4.6min with the addition of the MG technology. Recently, it was demonstrated that the application of MG for CRT device implants could successfully result in a median fluoroscopy time of 2.6min for LV lead deployment.In summary, the first measurable clinical impact of the MG technology on a daily clinical routine is the reduction of fluoroscopy time and radiation exposure for various EP indications. These beneficial effects were achieved without negative consequences on procedural efficacy, complications, or time in more than 600 EP procedures.