Catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation with a multi‐electrode radiofrequency balloon; first and early two centre experience in Europe

Abstract

AbstractIntroductionThe Heliostar™ ablation system is a novel RF balloon ablation technology with an integrated three‐dimensional mapping system. Here, we describe our early experience and procedural outcomes using this technology for atrial fibrillation catheter ablation.MethodsWe sought to comprehensively assess the first 60 consecutive patients undergoing pulmonary vein isolation using the novel HELISOTAR™ RF balloon technology including procedural outcomes. A comparison of the workflow between two different anaesthetic modalities (conscious sedation [CS] vs. general anaesthesia [GA]) was made. Procedural data were collected prospectively from two high‐volume centers (Barts Heart Centre, UK and University Hospital of Zurich, Zurich). A standardized approach for catheter ablation was employed.ResultsA total of 35 patients had the procedure under CS and the remaining under GA. Mean procedural and fluoroscopy times were 84 ± 33 min and 1.1 min. The median duration of RF energy application was 7 (5–9.8) mins per patient. All veins were successfully isolated, and the median isolation time was 10 (7–15) seconds. Our cohort's rate of procedural complications was low, with no mortality within 30 days postprocedure.ConclusionOur early experience shows that catheter ablation using the Heliostar™ technology can be performed efficiently and safely; however, long‐term data is yet to be established. Low fluoroscopy requirements, short learning curves and use of this technology with CS is possible, including the use of an oesophageal temperature probe.