Advanced Pulse Ablation Technology for Atrial Fibrillation Treatment Demonstrated in Beijing
Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death worldwide, and atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia, posing significant treatment challenges. Traditionally, AF treatment has struggled to balance the need for precision with the goal of reducing procedure time. Prolonged procedures offer greater accuracy but are harder for patients to tolerate, while faster procedures may increase the risk of recurrence and complications.
On October 17, a team led by Dr. Yang Haitao in Beijing presented an innovative solution to this dilemma, demonstrating a groundbreaking approach to AF treatment. The team showcased the use of ultra-high-density mapping combined with ultra-high-power ablation at a prominent international cardiology conference. The procedure was live-streamed globally, offering a real-time look at the latest advances in AF management.
The patient in this demonstration was a 77-year-old individual with a history of paroxysmal AF, whose symptoms of palpitations and shortness of breath had persisted for several years. The situation was further complicated by underlying conditions, including hypertension and diabetes. The patient’s complex medical background required an advanced approach, emphasizing both the precision of treatment and the need for safety, particularly in older, frail individuals.
To address these challenges, the team used state-of-the-art technology to guide the procedure. The first step involved the Cartosound-Fam system, a cardiac navigation tool that accurately located the atrial positions. This system allowed the team to build a 3D model of the atrium and perform the atrial septal puncture with exceptional precision.
Next, the ultra-precise OCTARAY catheter was introduced. This mapping tool provided an in-depth look at the left atrium, identifying critical lesions and offering a high-definition "battle map" to guide the team through the treatment process.
During the ablation phase, the team used the QDOT catheter, a high-power, short-duration energy device. This technology significantly reduced the amount of fluid required during the procedure, helping to alleviate patient discomfort while improving both safety and efficacy. By delivering continuous 90W energy, the team was able to achieve effective ablation with minimal thermal injury.
After the ablation, the OCTARAY catheter was used again to assess the effectiveness of the pulmonary vein isolation and ablation lines. It also helped the team identify any remaining arrhythmic foci in non-pulmonary veins, ensuring that no areas were left untreated.
The procedure was completed efficiently, with the patient’s vital signs remaining stable and promising post-operative results. Dr. Yang Haitao commented on the success of the procedure, stating, “The combination of OCTARAY and QDOT allowed us to achieve precision and speed simultaneously. OCTARAY helped us ‘see clearly and target precisely,’ ensuring we could address even the most complex arrhythmias. Meanwhile, QDOT enabled us to ‘ablate quickly and steadily,’ reducing procedure time and minimizing discomfort, which is especially important for elderly patients.”
This demonstration earned praise from cardiology experts around the world, who recognized the significance of this new approach. “This technology offers a comprehensive solution for treating AF, particularly in complex cases involving older patients or those with multiple underlying conditions,” one expert remarked.
The demonstration not only highlighted the advanced capabilities of the team but also showcased how China’s cardiology practices are reaching world-class standards. The breakthrough technologies presented are a promising step forward in the global effort to improve AF treatment, offering new hope for patients worldwide.