Remote Magnetic Navigation Research Articles

When Robotics Makes the Difference: Robotic Magnetic Navigation Offers Advantages in Retrograde Approach During Catheter Ablation of Left-Sided Accessory Pathways

When Robotics Makes the Difference: Robotic Magnetic Navigation Offers Advantages in Retrograde Approach During Catheter Ablation of Left-Sided Accessory Pathways

Overcoming Anatomic Barriers in the Right Ventricular Outflow Tract with 4D Intracardiac Echocardiography and Robotic Magnetic Navigation System

Overcoming Anatomic Barriers in the Right Ventricular Outflow Tract with 4D Intracardiac Echocardiography and Robotic Magnetic Navigation System

Remote magnetic navigation for treatment of patients with atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) remains an important medical and social health problem occupying a leading position among all cardiac arrhythmias in clinical practice. AF increases overall mortality by 1.9 times and the risk of stroke by 5 times, leads to disability among the working-age population, and reduces the quality of life. Pulmonary veins isolation is the main approach in the treatment of AF symptomatic patients who are resistant to antiarrhythmic therapy. However, the use of this technique is associated with the need for long-term use of fluoroscopy and monitoring of the contact force of the ablation catheter with the heart tissue for an effective and safe exposure on the arrhythmia substrate. In addition, the complication rate can reach up to 5% even when using non-fluoroscopic navigation systems. Over the past decade, robotic magnetic navigation was established as a safe and effective technology in the treatment of patients with different cardiac arrhythmias. The advantages of this technology are the flexibility and mobility of the ablation catheter to reach difficult areas during ablation procedure, as well as high efficiency and safety, with a low fluoroscopy exposure time. This review analyses the current literature and documents the experience of using robotic magnetic navigation for the treatment of patients with different forms of AF. We conducted searches on Scopus, Web of Science databases and PubMed. The reviewed studies demonstrated that the use of robotic magnetic navigation is a safe and highly effective method of treating patients with AF. It also helps to reduce the time of fluoroscopy during ablation procedure. Received 26 August 2021. Revised 21 September 2021. Accepted 22 September 2021. Funding: This work was carried out within the framework of the state task of Ministry of Health of Russian Federation No. 121031300225-8. Conflict of interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest. Contribution of the authorsConception and study design: V.V. Beloborodov, A.G. Filippenko, A.B. RomanovData collection and analysis: V.V. Beloborodov, N.А. Yelemessov, E.V. Fisher, A.G. Filippenko, V.V. Shabanov, A.B. RomanovStatistical analysis: A.B. Romanov, I.L. MikheenkoDrafting the article: V.V. Beloborodov, A.G. Filippenko, A.B. RomanovCritical revision of the article: A.B. Romanov, I.L. Mikheenko, A.G. Filippenko, V.V. ShabanovFinal approval of the version to be published: V.V. Beloborodov, V.V. Shabanov, N.А. Yelemessov, A.G. Filippenko, I.L. Mikheenko, E.V. Fisher, A.B. Romanov

The feasibility of using remote magnetic navigation system as the primary technological training tool for novice cardiac electrophysiology operators in the catheter ablation of left-sided accessory pathway.

For novice operators, mastering catheter ablation of left-sided accessory pathway (LSAP) in a short duration of time without compromising efficacy and safety remains a challenge. In this study an attempt to shorten the learning curve by using robotics via a remote magnetic navigation (RMN) system was performed. Novice physician fellows without prior catheter ablation experience initiated their process of learning LSAP ablation using the Niobe™ RMN system. Their procedure parameters were recorded and compared with experienced operators using RMN and manual catheter navigation (MCN). Novice operators quickly shortened the total procedure time after their first five procedures. In subsequent procedures, no significant difference in procedure time, fluoroscopy exposure or ablation time was observed between novice and experienced RMN operators. When compared to MCN operators, novice operators avoided excessive radiation exposure beginning with their first RMN procedure, while lower fluoroscopy doses were noted after five procedures. It was observed that procedure parameters did not differ significantly according to LSAP location. The RMN system is a practical and easy to use tool for novice electrophysiology operators to quickly master LSAP ablation, without compromising efficacy or safety. Additionally, when compared to MCN it also protects the operators and patients from excessive radiation exposure during the procedure.

Comparison of the Mid-Term Outcomes of Robotic Magnetic Navigation-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation versus Cryoballoon Ablation for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation.

Introduction: Currently, numerous ablation techniques are available for atrial fibrillation (AF), in addition to manual radio frequency ablation. The aim of this prospective, non-randomized concurrent controlled trial was to compare the mid-term efficacy and procedural outcomes of persistent AF (PerAF) using cryoballoon (CB) and robotic magnetic navigation (RMN). Methods: Two hundred PerAF patients were assigned, in a 1:1 ratio, to undergo catheter ablation using RMN (RMN group) or CB (CB group). The primary endpoint was freedom from AF recurrence following a 3-month period after the index ablation. The secondary endpoint was peri-procedural outcomes, including the total procedure time, left atrial procedure time, fluoroscopy time, and fluoroscopy dose. The Two-step cluster analysis was used to determine the efficacy of RMN and CB between the different groups. The Cox proportional hazard model and restricted cubic spline were used to determine predictors for AF recurrence. Results: At the mean follow-up of 28.1 ± 9.7 months, the primary endpoint was achieved in 71 PerAF patients in the RMN group and in 62 PerAF patients in the CB group (71% vs. 62%, p = 0.158). Compared with CB, RMN-guided ablation led to a longer procedure time (p < 0.001), but with less radiation (p < 0.001). Cluster analysis returned two clusters of patients and RMN was favorable for one cluster (p = 0.037), in which more patients presented with diabetes mellitus and smaller left atria. Conclusions: For patients with PerAF, CB is generally equivalent to RMN-guided ablation with regard to overall efficacy. RMN-guided ablation could be favorable in specific patient populations presenting with diabetes mellitus and smaller left atria.

Utilization of steerable sheath improves the efficiency of atrial fibrillation ablation guided by robotic magnetic navigation compared with fixed-curve sheath.

BackgroundThe objective of this study was to assess the impact of steerable sheaths compared with fixed‐curve sheaths on the procedural outcomes of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation guided by robotic magnetic navigation (RMN).Methods and ResultsIn this retrospective case−control study, 110 patients scheduled for AF catheter ablation were enrolled and divided into two groups. Fifty‐five patients (paroxysmal, 70%) were treated with RMN‐guided ablation utilizing a steerable sheath and another 55 patients (paroxysmal, 70%) were ablated with RMN using a fixed‐curve sheath. Clinical characteristics were similar between the two groups. Compared with the fixed‐curve sheath group, the steerable sheath group procedure time (111.9 ± 25.2 vs. 90.4 ± 20.7 min, p < .001) and radiofrequency (RF) time (35.9 ± 9.0 vs. 30.5 ± 7.4 min, p < .001) were significantly shortened. Additionally, the navigation index was significantly improved (0.41 ± 0.06 vs. 0.48 ± 0.08, p < .001) in the steerable sheath group. By employing a large catheter loop for targeting the right pulmonary veins (PVs), the steerable sheath group significantly reduced the RF delivery time (15.0 ± 3.0 vs. 12.0 ± 2.1 min, p < .001) during right‐side PV isolation (PVI). However, total fluoroscopy time was similar between the two groups (5.6 ± 2.6 vs. 5.0 ± 2.0 min, p > .05). Acute PVI success rates were similar between the two groups. No major or minor complications occurred in either group.ConclusionAppropriate utilization of steerable sheath technology can improve the efficiency of AF ablation guided by RMN, primarily by reducing the total procedure and RF delivery times of right‐side PVI without compromising safety.

Comparison of the Anterior Septal Line and Mitral Isthmus Line for Perimitral Atrial Flutter Ablation Using Robotic Magnetic Navigation.

Background Perimitral atrial flutter (PMAFL) is one of the most common macro-reentrant left atrial tachycardias. Mitral isthmus (MI) linear ablation is a common strategy for the treatment of PMAFLs, and anterior septum (AS) linear ablation has emerged as a novel ablation approach. We aimed at assessing the effectiveness of AS linear ablation using robotic magnetic navigation for PMAFL ablation. Methods In this retrospective study, a total of 36 consecutive patients presented with AFL as the unique arrhythmia or accompanied with atrial fibrillation (AF) who underwent catheter ablation were enrolled. Patients were classified into two groups according to the different ablation strategies, the MI line group (10 patients) and the AS line group (26 patients). Results The clinical baseline characteristics of patients in the two groups were nearly identical. There were no significant differences in procedure time (148.7 ± 46.1 vs. 123.2 ± 30.1 min, P=0.058) or radiofrequency ablation time (25.9 ± 11.4 vs. 23.5 ± 12.6 min) between the two groups. Fluoroscopy time was longer in the MI line group (8.0 ± 4.4 vs. 5.1 ± 2.7 min, P=0.024), and the acute success rate was higher in the AS line group versus the MI line group (96.2% vs. 70%, P=0.025). The long-term freedom from arrhythmia survival rate was higher in the AS line group (73%) than in the MI line group (40%) after a mean follow-up time of 37.4 months with a 3-month blanking period (P=0.049). Conclusions AS linear ablation is an effective and safe strategy for PMAFL ablation using robotic magnetic navigation.

Dipole Charge Density Mapping Integrated in Remote Magnetic Navigation: First-in-Human Feasibility Study

Dipole Charge Density Mapping Integrated in Remote Magnetic Navigation: First-in-Human Feasibility Study

Performance of Dipole Charge Density Mapping Integrated with Robotic Magnetic Navigation in Atrial Tachycardia Ablation

Performance of Dipole Charge Density Mapping Integrated with Robotic Magnetic Navigation in Atrial Tachycardia Ablation

Telerobotic interventions from a distance: an initial experience in 3D phantom mapping

IntroductionThe current COVID-19 pandemic has fostered several accelerations in “remote” patient care such as video and telephone clinics, as well as multidisciplinary collaborations using online platforms with experts consulting the local teams from a distance. The next logical step would be to also offer remote-controlled interventions which the expert operator not on site, but in support of the local team. This is especially valuable for complex interventions when either patient or expert operator can not be present at the same place.PurposeWe aimed to demonstrate that an expert operator located at far distance (Austria) could directly interact with the remote magnetic navigation system in London (UK) whilst mapping a 3D phantom using an electroanatomical mapping system.MethodTwo experienced operators of the magnetic navigation system were tasked with creating fast anatomic maps (FAM) of the atrial and ventricular chambers of a 3D phantom using remote magnetic navigation in combination with 3D electroanatomical mapping. One was located in the control room of the magnetic catheter lab (UK) and the second one was in Tirol, Austria and connected through a secure remote desktop connection (via high speed fibre optic cable). Using a solid tip magnetic catheter connected to a mechanical drive, all interactions with the system were carried out via the Odyssey platform. Acquisitions for right and left atrium, as well as right and left ventricles plus aorta was compared with regards to mapping duration, map completeness (as judged by the average distance of surface points from 3D CT scan reconstruction), total 3D map volume and need for additional radiation exposure during the mapping process.ResultsMapping time and map completeness when performed by the distant operator was not inferior to the local operator and both did not require any additional radiation exposure during the mapping process. Table 1 demonstrates the mean parameters for each chamber, respectively. Figure 1 depicts the matched data for chamber completeness as compared for the LA (green= local operator, pink= distant operator) using a contrast CT scan as the gold standard.ConclusionTelerobotic 3D mapping of a 3D phantom from a distance was equally fast delivered from the control room as compared to an operator located 1200 km away without compromising on map completeness. This demonstrates the feasibility of telerobotic interventions and stress the need for remote collaboration which is especially valuable when travel of patients and/or physician experts is restricted.Funding AcknowledgementType of funding sources: None. Matched data for aorta

Remote magnetic navigation ablation of incisional atrial flutters in adolescent with a giant right atrium after surgical correction of tetralogy of Fallot and Ebstein's anomaly

We describe a clinical case of a 17-years-old adolescent with congenital heart disease after three open-heart surgery procedures for correction of tetralogy of Fallot and Ebstein's anomaly who presented with drug-resistant, persistent atrial flutter and giant right atrium (8.2 cm by transthoracic echocardiography). The successful ablation procedure of the two types of incisional atrial flutter was performed using remote magnetic navigation without any complications with 2.2 minutes of fluoroscopy. The patient remained free of any arrhythmias without antiarrhythmic drugs during 12 months of follow-up with a reduction of right atrium size (5.8 cm by transthoracic echocardiography).

Remote magnetic navigation compared to contemporary manual techniques for the catheter ablation of ventricular arrhythmias in structural heart disease

BackgroundThere are limited data comparing remote magnetic navigation (RMN) to contemporary techniques of manual-guided ventricular arrhythmia (VA) catheter ablation. ObjectivesWe compared acute and long-term outcomes of VA ablation guided by either RMN or contemporary manual techniques in patients with structural heart disease. MethodsFrom 2010–2019, 192 consecutive patients, with ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) or non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) underwent catheter ablation for sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT) or premature ventricular complexes (PVCs), using either RMN (n = 60) or manual (n = 132) guided techniques. Acute success and VA-free survival were compared. ResultsIn ICM, acute procedural success was comparable between the 2 techniques (manual 43.5% vs. RMN 29%, P = 0.11), as was VA-free survival (manual 83% vs. RMN 74%, P = 0.88), and survival free from cardiac transplantation and all-cause mortality (manual 88% vs. RMN 87%, P = 0.47), both at 12-months after final ablation. In NICM, manual compared to RMN guided, had superior acute procedural success (manual 46% vs. RMN 19%, P = 0.003) and VA-free survival 12-months after final ablation (manual 79% vs. RMN 41%, P = 0.004), but comparable survival free from cardiac transplantation and all-cause mortality 12-months after final ablation (manual 95% vs. RMN 90%, P = 0.52). Procedural duration was shorter in both subgroups undergoing manual guided ablation, whereas fluoroscopy dose and complication rates were comparable. ConclusionRMN provides similar outcomes to manual ablation in patients with ICM. In NICM however, acute success, and long-term VA-free survival was better with manual ablation. Prospective, multi-centre randomised trials comparing contemporary manual and RMN systems for VA catheter ablation are needed.

Atrial Fibrillation Ablation Using Robotic Magnetic Navigation Reduces the Incidence of Silent Cerebral Embolism.

Background: The incidence of silent cerebral embolisms (SCEs) has been documented after pulmonary vein isolation using different ablation technologies; however, it is unreported in patients undergoing with atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation using Robotic Magnetic Navigation (RMN). The purpose of this prospective study was to investigate the incidence, risk predictors and probable mechanisms of SCEs in patients with AF ablation and the potential impact of RMN on SCE rates.Methods and Results: We performed a prospective study of 166 patients with paroxysmal or persistent AF who underwent pulmonary vein isolation. Patients were divided into RMN group (n = 104) and manual control (MC) group (n = 62), and analyzed for their demographic, medical, echocardiographic, and risk predictors of SCEs. All patients underwent cerebral magnetic resonance imaging within 48 h before and after the ablation procedure to assess cerebral embolism. The incidence and potential risk factors of SCEs were compared between the two groups. There were 26 total cases of SCEs in this study, including 6 cases in the RMN group and 20 cases in the MC group. The incidences of SCEs in the RMN group and the MC group were 5.77 and 32.26%, respectively (X2 = 20.63 P < 0.05). Univariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that ablation technology, CHA2DS2-VASc score, history of cerebrovascular accident/transient ischemic attack, and low ejection fraction were significantly associated with SCEs, and multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that MC ablation was the only independent risk factor of SCEs after an AF ablation procedure.Conclusions: Ablation technology, CHA2DS2-VASc score, history of cerebrovascular accident/transient ischemic attack, and low ejection fraction are associated with SCEs. However, ablation technology is the only independent risk factor of SCEs and RMN can significantly reduce the incidence of SCEs resulting from AF ablation.Clinical Trial Registration: ChiCTR2100046505.

Abstract 12571: Predictors of Successful Ablation of Premature Ventricular Contractions in Structurally Normal Heart

Background: Long term exposure of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) may lead to development of cardiomyopathy. Catheter ablation has been reported to effectively reduce PVC burden. Objective: To determine factors that may predict acute and long-term success with catheter ablation in the following locations: left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT), right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT), left ventricular summit (LVS), and papillary muscle (PM). Methods: All PVC ablations in structurally normal hearts from 6/2010 to 6/2017 were included. Acute and long-term success was assessed. Long-term success was defined as &gt;80% PVC reduction. Results: A total of 149 patients were included. Mean age of subjects was 57.7 ± 13.1, 55.0% were female. Mean PVC per hour prior to procedure was 900.5 ± 716.8. Distribution of PVC location was: 46.3% RVOT, 21.5% LVOT, 20.1% LVS, 20.5% PM. 8.2% of patients had more than one location of ablation. Acute success was 93.3%. Mean PVC/hour reduction for all locations was 79.5%, RVOT 77.3%, LVOT 89.5%, LVS 77.2%, PM 82.6%, and 67.8% for multiple locations. There was statistically significant reduction in mean PVC/hour when comparing baseline and follow-up PVC burden for each anatomic location except when multiple locations were ablated (Paired t test, p = values shown in Graph 1). Long-term success was 70.5%, measured by rhythm monitor with median follow up of 69 days (IQR 20-323). To assess predictors for ablation failure, logistic regression was performed for the following variables: age, sex, ethnicity, method (robotic magnetic navigation (RMN) vs manual), location, and reduced EF. The only statistically significant predictor of long-term failure was reduced EF (OR = 2.67, p = .048). Conclusion: Acute success was high with PVC ablation regardless of location of origin. Deep sites requiring ablation at multiple locations were less effective.

Catheter ablation for ventricular arrhythmias using remote magnetic navigation in patients with reduced ejection fraction

Objective. Radiofrequency catheter ablation is an effective treatment option for cardiac arrhythmias including complex and ventricular arrhythmias. Remote magnetic catheter navigation (RMN) has been developed as a novel way of approach aiming to improve outcome and reduce complication rate, and reduce radiation exposure for both operator and patient. Our aim was to compare success and complication rate in patients with or without severely reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Methods. We retrospectively analyzed all the patients (n = 98) which have undergone RMN in our center between 2015-2021. No selection criteria for RMN procedure have been applied. All clinical and paraclinical, as well as procedural data were collected. Patients were divided into two groups, with or without severely reduced LVEF ≤ 35%. CARTO system was used for 3D electroanatomic mapping. RMN was done using Niobe ES system and an open-irrigated magnetic ablation catheter. Success rate was defi ned by complete elimination of clinical arrhythmia. Non-inducibility following ablation was assessed in all patients presenting with any type of ventricular arrhythmia other than premature ventricular contractions. Testing for inducibility was done by ventricular programmed pacing with up to four extra-stimuli. The statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software. P-value &lt; 0.05 was considered signifi cant. Results. Successful ablation with complete elimination of the clinical arrhythmia was achieved in 92.3% of the patients with severely reduced LVEF and in 88.1% of patients with LVEF &gt; 35% (p = 0.73). Overall minor complication rate was 2.04% with spontaneous resolution. No major complications were reported. Non-inducibility was achieved in 56.4% of the patients with LVEF ≤ 35% and in 79.2% of the patients with LVEF &gt;35% (p = 0.023). Conclusion. Radiofrequency catheter ablation using RMN is effective and safe regardless of the presence or not of a severely reduced LVEF.

Long-Term Efficacy and Impact on Mortality of Remote Magnetic Navigation Guided Catheter Ablation of Ventricular Arrhythmias.

Remote magnetic navigation (RMN) facilitates ventricular arrhythmia (VA) ablation. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term efficacy of RMN-guided ablation for ventricular tachycardia (VT) and premature ventricular contractions (PVC). A total of 176 consecutive patients (mean age 53.23 ± 17.55 years, 37% female) underwent VA ablation for PVC (132 patients, 75%) or VT (44 patients, 25%). The cohort consisted of 119 patients (68%) with idiopathic VA, 31 (18%) with ischemic (ICM), and 26 (15%) with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). VA recurrence was observed in 69 patients (39%, mean age 51.71 ± 19.91 years, 23% female) during a follow-up period of 5.48 years (first quartile 770.50 days, second quartile 1101.50 days, third quartile 1615.50 days). Left ventricular ejection fraction <40% lead to a significantly increased risk for VA (p = 0.031*). Multivariate analyses found DCM to be an independent predictor (IP) for VA recurrence (p < 0.001*, hazard ratio (HR) 3.74, confidence interval (CI) 1.58–8.88). ICM resulted in a lower increase in VA recurrence (p = 0.221, HR 1.49, CI 0.79–2.81). Class I/III/IV antiarrhythmic drug therapy (AADs) was also identified as IP for recurrence (p = 0.030*, HR 2.48, CI 1.11–5.68). A total of 16 patients (9%) died within the observational period. RMN-guided ablation of VA lead to acceptable long-term results. An impaired LV function, DCM, and AADs were associated with a significant risk for VA recurrence. Personalized paths are needed to improve efficacy and outcome.

Telerobotic interventions from a distance: an initial experience in 3D phantom mapping

Abstract Introduction The current COVID-19 pandemic has fostered several accelerations in “remote” patient care such as video and telephone clinics, as well as multidisciplinary collaborations using online platforms with experts consulting the local teams from a distance. The next logical step would be to also offer remote-controlled interventions which the expert operator not on site, but in support of the local team. This is especially valuable for complex interventions when either patient or expert operator can not be present at the same place. Purpose We aimed to demonstrate that an expert operator located at far distance (Austria) could directly interact with the remote magnetic navigation system in London (UK) whilst mapping a 3D phantom using an electroanatomical mapping system. Method Two experienced operators of the magnetic navigation system were tasked with creating fast anatomic maps (FAM) of the atrial and ventricular chambers of a 3D phantom using remote magnetic navigation in combination with 3D electroanatomical mapping. One was located in the control room of the magnetic catheter lab (UK) and the second one was in Tirol, Austria and connected through a secure remote desktop connection (via high speed fibre optic cable). Using a solid tip magnetic catheter connected to a mechanical drive, all interactions with the system were carried out via the Odyssey platform. Acquisitions for right and left atrium, as well as right and left ventricles plus aorta was compared with regards to mapping duration, map completeness (as judged by the average distance of surface points from 3D CT scan reconstruction), total 3D map volume and need for additional radiation exposure during the mapping process. Results Mapping time and map completeness when performed by the distant operator was not inferior to the local operator and both did not require any additional radiation exposure during the mapping process. Table 1 demonstrates the mean parameters for each chamber, respectively. Figure 1 depicts the matched data for chamber completeness as compared for the LA (green= local operator, pink= distant operator) using a contrast CT scan as the gold standard. Conclusion Telerobotic 3D mapping of a 3D phantom from a distance was equally fast delivered from the control room as compared to an operator located 1200 km away without compromising on map completeness. This demonstrates the feasibility of telerobotic interventions and stress the need for remote collaboration which is especially valuable when travel of patients and/or physician experts is restricted. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None. Matched data for aorta

Remote magnetic navigation shows superior long-term outcomes in pediatric atrioventricular (nodal) tachycardia ablation compared to manual radiofrequency and cryoablation.

BackgroundCatheter ablation (CA) is the first-choice treatment for tachyarrhythmia in children. Currently available CA techniques differ in mechanism of catheter navigation and energy sources. There are no large studies comparing long-term outcomes between available CA techniques in a pediatric population with atrioventricular reentry tachycardia (AVRT) or atrioventricular nodal reentry tachycardia (AVNRT) mechanisms.ObjectiveThis study aimed to compare procedural and long-term outcomes of remote magnetic navigation-guided radiofrequency (RF) ablation (RMN), manual-guided RF ablation (MAN) and manual-guided cryoablation (CRYO).MethodsThis single-center, retrospective study included all first consecutive CA procedures for AVRT or AVNRT performed in children without structural heart disease from 2008 to 2019. Three study groups were defined by the ablation technique used: RMN, MAN or CRYO. Primary outcome was long-term recurrence of tachyarrhythmia.ResultsIn total, we included 223 patients, aged 14 (IQR 12–16) years; weighting 56 (IQR 47–65) kilograms. In total, 108 procedures were performed using RMN, 76 using MAN and 39 using CRYO. RMN had significantly lower recurrence rates compared to MAN and CRYO at mean follow-up of 5.5 ± 2.9 years (AVRT: 4.3% versus 15.6% versus 54.5%, P < 0.001; AVNRT: 7.7% versus 8.3% versus 35.7%, P = 0.008; for RMN versus MAN versus CRYO respectively). In AVNRT ablation, RMN had significantly lower fluoroscopy doses compared to CRYO [30 (IQR 20–41) versus 45 (IQR 29–65) mGy, P = 0.040).ConclusionIn pediatric patients without structural heart disease who underwent their first AV(N)RT ablation, RMN has superior long-term outcomes compared to MAN and CRYO, in addition to favorable fluoroscopy doses.

Radiofrequency catheter ablation for ventricular tachycardia using robotic magnetic navigation technology in a teenager after surgery of congenital heart disease and transcatheter closure of ventricular septal defect using an occluder: a case report

Introduction. The case report describes radiofrequency ablation of ventricular tachycardia (VT) using robotic magnetic navigation (RMN) in a teenager after surgery of congenital heart disease (CHD) and transcatheter closure of ventricular septal defect (VSD) using an occluder.Short description. The 16-year-old female patient was operated on in 2005 for CHD. In 2018, the patient underwent resection of ascending aortic sub-valvular membrane, followed by transcatheter closure of VSD with an occluder. After surgery, VT of 294 bpm was documented, which required an emergency hospitalization. Decision was taken to perform a radiofrequency ablation (RFA) using RMN. RFA was performed from the pulmonary artery valve through the scar to upper occluder edge spreading to tricuspid valve. After procedure, VT paroxysms were not induced with all pacing types. According to ECG series and 24-hour Holter monitoring on the 2nd day after surgery, VT episodes were not recorded. During the 6-month follow-up period, VT episodes were not registered without taking antiarrhythmic drugs.Discussion. This case report demonstrates the effectiveness of using RMN system for VT ablation in a teenager with CHD, who underwent open surgical interventions and transcatheter VSD closure using an occluder.

Feasibility and outcome of supraventricular tachycardia ablation via a retrograde access using remote magnetic navigation in patients with physiologically univentricular hearts after Damus-Kaye-Stansel surgery

AimsSupraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is one of the most frequent complications in adult patients with congenital heart disease (CHD). Limited experience exists for successful ablation in complex CHD patients with prior Damus-Kaye-Stansel (DKS) surgery. MethodsAll patient files of a single-center were screened retrospectively to identify CHD patients with prior DKS surgery throughout a time-interval from 1998 to 2020. These were analysed with focus on SVT, treatment and outcome of catheter ablation (CA). ResultsOverall, 13 patients with prior DKS surgery were identified (median age 22.0 years (IQR 20.5–25.5 years), 76.9% male, 92.3% NYHA Class I, median systemic ventricular ejection fraction 58.5% (IQR 53.0–65.5), 69.2% extra cardiac tunnel). Seven patients (53.8%) presented with symptomatic SVT (median cycle length 440 ms (IQR 360–517 ms)). Of these, five patients underwent CA using remote magnetic navigation. The majority of procedures were performed through a retrograde access using three-dimensional image integration. Median procedure time was 180.5 min (IQR 160.8–274.5 min), median fluoroscopy time 1.5 min (IQR 0.5–4.7 min) and radiofrequency time 851 s (265–2005 s). No peri- or postinterventional complications were observed. After a mean of 1.5 procedures, all patients were complaint-free without documentation of tachycardia recurrence throughout a median follow-up of 13 months (IQR 5.8–17.5 months). ConclusionIn complex univentricular situations after Damus-Kaye-Stansel surgery, ablation for supraventricular tachycardia can be achieved safely and successfully. Techniques such as remote magnetic navigation and three-dimensional image integration may aid for successful procedure results.