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Lin C, Nguyen A, Ling I, Partow-Navid R, Leung S, Zadeh A, Ho I, Zaman JA. SuperMap algorithm: an efficient, safe and accurate modality for mapping and eliminating challenging cardiac arrhythmias. Future Cardiol 2024; 20:45-53. [PMID: 38530866 DOI: 10.2217/fca-2023-0123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Even with the development of advanced catheter-based mapping systems, there remain several challenges in the electrophysiological evaluation and elimination of atrial arrhythmias. For instance, atrial tachycardias with irregular rates cannot be reliably mapped by systems that require stability in order to sequentially gather data points to be organized thereafter. Separately, these arrhythmias often arise following initial ablation for atrial fibrillation, posing logistic challenges. Here, we present the available literature summarizing the use of a non-contact mapping catheter, the AcQMap catheter, in conjunction with SuperMap, an algorithm that compiles a large number of non-contact data points from multiple catheter positions within the atria. These studies demonstrate the efficiency, safety and accuracy of this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlie Lin
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, CA 90033, USA
| | - Andrew Nguyen
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, CA 90033, USA
| | - Ian Ling
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, CA 90033, USA
| | - Rod Partow-Navid
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, CA 90033, USA
| | - Steven Leung
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, CA 90033, USA
| | - Andrew Zadeh
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, CA 90033, USA
| | - Ivan Ho
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, CA 90033, USA
| | - Junaid Ab Zaman
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, CA 90033, USA
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Hernández-Romero I, Molero R, Fambuena-Santos C, Herrero-Martín C, Climent AM, Guillem MS. Electrocardiographic imaging in the atria. Med Biol Eng Comput 2023; 61:879-896. [PMID: 36370321 PMCID: PMC9988819 DOI: 10.1007/s11517-022-02709-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The inverse problem of electrocardiography or electrocardiographic imaging (ECGI) is a technique for reconstructing electrical information about cardiac surfaces from noninvasive or non-contact recordings. ECGI has been used to characterize atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. Although it is a technology with years of progress, its development to characterize atrial arrhythmias is challenging. Complications can arise when trying to describe the atrial mechanisms that lead to abnormal propagation patterns, premature or tachycardic beats, and reentrant arrhythmias. This review addresses the various ECGI methodologies, regularization methods, and post-processing techniques used in the atria, as well as the context in which they are used. The current advantages and limitations of ECGI in the fields of research and clinical diagnosis of atrial arrhythmias are outlined. In addition, areas where ECGI efforts should be concentrated to address the associated unsatisfied needs from the atrial perspective are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rubén Molero
- ITACA, Universitat Politècnica de València, Valencia, Spain
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Lu Y, Zei PC, Jiang C. Current Understanding of Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence After Atrial Fibrillation Ablation: From Pulmonary Vein to Epicardium. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2022; 45:1216-1224. [PMID: 35998211 DOI: 10.1111/pace.14581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) after catheter ablation is common, with pulmonary vein (PV) reconnection considered the most likely cause. However, technologies such as contact force-sensing, irrigated catheters, and ablation index (AI)-guided ablation strategies have resulted in more durable PV isolation. As a result, it is difficult to predict which patients will develop AF recurrence despite durable PV isolation, with evolving non-PV atrial substrates thought to be a key contributor to late recurrences. Deciphering the complex mechanisms of AF recurrence beyond the cornerstone of PV isolation therefore remains challenging. Recently, there have been several important advances that may lead to better understanding and treatment of this challenging clinical entity: percutaneous epicardial access and mapping, late gadolinium enhancement magnetic resonance imaging (LGE-MRI), improvements in high-resolution electroanatomic mapping, and new ablation energy sources, specifically pulsed-field ablation. This review aims to synthesize the current literature in an effort to better understand arrhythmia mechanisms and treatment targets in patients with AF/Atrial tachycardia (AT) recurrence post-ablation. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Lu
- Department of Cardiology, Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Paul C Zei
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chenyang Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Hangzhou, China
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Risk factors and Management of Mitral Annular Atrial Flutter After Mitral Valve Surgery. CURRENT CARDIOVASCULAR RISK REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12170-022-00696-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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5
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Boersma L. New energy sources and technologies for atrial fibrillation catheter ablation. Europace 2022; 24:ii44-ii51. [PMID: 35661869 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euab258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ablation has become a cornerstone for the management of symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients where anti-arrhythmic drugs fail. Electrical isolation of the pulmonary veins (PVs) is the basic step for every procedure but is still hampered by tools and energy sources that do not lead to durability of isolation. Novel therapies include high power short duration radiofrequency ablation in combination with optimal cooling of the electrode-tissue interface by irrigation or new electrode material to allow for optimal safe energy transfer. Novel tools include competitive balloon catheters using cryoenergy, laser, or radiofrequency current, or linear array ablation with ultralow temperature cryoablation to enhance durability of lesions. A novel energy source is rapidly evolving in the form of pulsed electrical field ablation resulting in irreversible electroporation of cardiac tissue, potentially without collateral side effects. Beyond PV isolation, ablation targets are still under study as standardized addition of lesion lines shows limited benefits. Mapping of the activation pattern during AF to guide patient-specific target ablation has been developing over the last decade, with mixed results by different platforms. The field of ablation for AF is evolving more rapidly than ever which will hopeful result in better long-term outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Boersma
- Cardiology Department, St. Antonius Hospital, PO 2500, 3430 EM, Nieuwegein, Netherlands.,Cardiology Department, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Atrial Fibrillation Global Changes after Pulmonary Vein and Posterior Wall Isolation: A Charge Density Mapping Study. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11102948. [PMID: 35629074 PMCID: PMC9145946 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11102948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Non-contact charge density (CD) mapping allows a global visualization of left atrium (LA) activation and of activation patterns during atrial fibrillation (AF). The aim of this study was to analyze, with CD mapping, the changes in persistent AF induced by pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) and LA posterior wall isolation (LAPWI). Methods: Patients undergoing PVI + LAPWI using the Arctic Front Advance PROTM cryoballoon system were included in the study. CD maps were created during AF at baseline, after PVI and after LAPWI. Three distinct activation patterns were identified in the CD maps: localized irregular activation (LIA), localized rotational activation (LRA) and focal centrifugal activation (FCA). LA maps were divided into the following regions: anterior, septal, lateral, roof, posterior, inferior. Results: Eleven patients were included, with a total of 33 maps and 198 AF regions analyzed. Global and regional AF cycle lengths significantly increased after PVI and LAPWI. Baseline analysis demonstrated higher LIA, LRA and FCA numbers in the posterior and anterior regions. After PVI, there was no change in LIA, LRA and FCA occurrence. After PVI + LAPWI, a significant decrease in LRA was observed with no difference in LIA and FCA occurrence. In the regional analysis, there was a significant reduction in the LIA number in the inferior region, in the LRA number in the roof and posterior regions and in the FCA number in the lateral region. Conclusions: A global reduction in the LRA number was observed only after PVI + LAPWI; it was driven by a reduction in rotational activity in the roof and posterior regions.
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Management of atrial fibrillation: two decades of progress - a scientific statement from the European Cardiac Arrhythmia Society. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2022; 65:287-326. [PMID: 35419669 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-022-01195-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia encountered in clinical practice. The aim of this review was to evaluate the progress made in the management of AF over the two last decades. RESULTS Clinical classification of AF is usually based on the presence of symptoms, the duration of AF episodes and their possible recurrence over time, although incidental diagnosis is not uncommon. The majority of patients with AF have associated cardiovascular diseases and more recently the recognition of modifiable risk factors both cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular which should be considered in its management. Among AF-related complications, stroke and transient ischaemic accidents (TIAs) carry considerable morbidity and mortality risk. The use of implantable devices such as pacemakers and defibrillators, wearable garments and subcutaneous cardiac monitors with recording capabilities has enabled to access the burden of "subclinical AF". The recent introduction of non-vitamin K antagonists has led to improve the prevention of stroke and peripheral embolism. Agents capable of reversing non-vitamin K antagonists have also become available in case of clinically relevant major bleeding. Transcatheter closure of left atrial appendage represents an option for patients unable to take oral anticoagulation. When treating patients with AF, clinicians need to select the most suitable strategy, i.e. control of heart rate and/or restoration and maintenance of sinus rhythm. The studies comparing these two strategies have not shown differences in terms of mortality. If an AF episode is poorly tolerated from a haemodynamic standpoint, electrical cardioversion is indicated. Otherwise, restoration of sinus rhythm can be obtained using intravenous pharmacological cardioversion and oral class I or class III antiarrhythmic is used to prevent recurrences. During the last two decades after its introduction in daily practice, catheter ablation has gained considerable escalation in popularity. Progress has also been made in AF associated with heart failure with reduced or preserved ejection fraction. CONCLUSIONS Significant progress has been made within the past 2 decades both in the pharmacological and non-pharmacological managements of this cardiac arrhythmia.
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Innovations in atrial fibrillation ablation. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2022; 66:737-756. [PMID: 35411440 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-022-01215-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Catheter-based ablation to perform pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) has established itself as a mainstay in the rhythm control strategy of atrial fibrillation. This review article aims to provide an overview of recent advances in atrial fibrillation ablation technology. METHODS We reviewed the available literature and clinical trials of innovations in atrial fibrillation ablation technologies including ablation catheter designs, alternative energy sources, esophageal protection methods, electroanatomical mapping, and novel ablation targets. RESULTS Innovative radiofrequency (RF) catheter designs maximize energy delivery while avoiding overheating associated with conventional catheters. Single-shot balloon catheters in the form of cryoballoons, radiofrequency, and laser balloons have proven effective at producing pulmonary vein isolation and improving procedural efficiency and reproducibility. Pulsed field ablation (PFA) is a highly anticipated novel nonthermal energy source under development, which demonstrates selective ablation of the myocardium, producing durable lesions while also minimizing collateral damage. Innovative devices for esophageal protection including esophageal deviation and cooling devices have been developed to reduce esophageal complications. Improved electroanatomical mapping systems are being developed to help identify additional non-pulmonary triggers, which may benefit from ablation, especially with persistent atrial fibrillation. Lastly, the vein of Marshall alcohol ablation has been recently studied as an adjunct therapy for improving outcomes with catheter ablation for persistent atrial fibrillation. CONCLUSIONS Numerous advances have been made in the field of atrial fibrillation ablation in the past decade. While further long-term data is still needed for these novel technologies, they show potential to improve procedural efficacy and safety.
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Pope MT, Betts TR. Global Substrate Mapping and Targeted Ablation with Novel Gold-tip Catheter in De Novo Persistent AF. Arrhythm Electrophysiol Rev 2022; 11:e06. [PMID: 35755327 PMCID: PMC9204651 DOI: 10.15420/aer.2021.64] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Results from catheter ablation for persistent AF are suboptimal, with no strategy other than pulmonary vein isolation showing clear benefit. Recently employed empirical strategies beyond pulmonary vein isolation involve widespread atrial ablation in all patients and do not take into account patient-specific differences in AF mechanisms or phenotype. Charge density mapping using the non-contact AcQMap system (Acutus Medical) allows visualisation of whole-chamber activation during AF and reveals localised patterns of complex activation thought to represent important mechanisms for AF maintenance that can be targeted with focal ablation. In this review, the authors outline the fundamentals of this technology, the initial data exploring the mechanistic role of activation patterns seen and the application to ablation of persistent AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Tb Pope
- Department of Cardiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK.,Department for Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Timothy R Betts
- Department of Cardiology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK.,University of Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
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Novel aggregated multiposition noncontact mapping of atrial tachycardia in humans: From computational modeling to clinical validation. Heart Rhythm 2021; 19:61-69. [PMID: 34583060 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2021.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A novel aggregated multiposition noncontact mapping (AMP-NCM) algorithm is proposed to diagnose cardiac arrhythmias. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to computationally determine an accuracy threshold and to compare the accuracy and clinical utility of AMP-NCM to gold standard contact mapping. METHODS In a cellular automata model, the number of catheter positions and chamber coverage were varied to establish accuracy requirements for clinically relevant AMP-NCM. This guided the clinical study protocol. In a prospective cohort of patients with atrial tachycardia (AT), noncontact mapping (NCM) recordings from a single position (SP) and multiple positions were compared to contact mapping with a high-density multipolar catheter using morphology and timing differences of reconstructed signals. Identification of AT mechanisms and ablation targets using both AMP-NCM and contact mapping were randomly evaluated by 5 blinded reviewers. RESULTS AMP-NCM accuracy was asymptotic at 60 catheter positions in computational modeling. Twenty patients (age 65 ± 12 years; 19 male) with 26 ATs (5 focal, 21 reentrant) were studied. Morphologic correlation of signals derived from AMP-NCM was significantly better than those from SP-NCM compared to contact signals (median 0.93 vs 0.76; P <.001). AMP-NCM generated maps more rapidly than contact mapping (3 ± 1 minutes vs 13 ± 6 minutes; P <.001) and correctly diagnosed AT mechanisms in 25 of 26 maps (96%). Overall, 80% of arrhythmia mechanisms were correctly identified using AMP-NCM by blinded reviewers. CONCLUSION Once 60 catheter positions were achieved, AMP-NCM successfully diagnosed mechanisms of AT and identified treatment sites equal to gold standard contact mapping in 3 minutes of procedural time.
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