Multi-pole Catheter Guidance for Atrial Fibrillation Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for localizing signal sources, such as rotors and foci, during atrial fibrillation ablation procedures are limited by the resolution and maneuverability of basket catheters, which often fail to detect arrhythmia substrates outside pulmonary veins and require manual manipulation for precise mapping and ablation.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a computing device to guide a multi-polar diagnostic catheter by analyzing electrogram signals and generating a mask or map to indicate the direction and distance of travel, overlayed on an anatomical image, to iteratively locate and target signal sources within the atria, enhancing the precision and effectiveness of AF ablation procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a basket catheter is used to map the entire atrial endocardium, then coverage area is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to limited resolution and difficulty ensuring good electrode contact at all sites
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the mapping process into multiple localized measurements using a multi-pole catheter with multiple electrodes that can be positioned at different locations. Each electrode provides localized high-resolution measurements, and the system integrates these segmented measurements to achieve comprehensive coverage with high precision throughout the atrial endocardium.
2Measurement precision
If a basket catheter is manipulated to precise anatomical sites for mapping, then localization precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to limited torque capabilities and maneuverability
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automated guidance features that use electrogram signal analysis to automatically determine the optimal direction and distance for catheter movement. The visual feedback system guides the operator in real-time, allowing the catheter to be maneuvered to precise anatomical sites with enhanced ease by providing directional guidance based on signal characteristics.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a basket catheter is used for RF energy delivery, then ablation capability is improved, but object-affected harmful factors increase due to risk of endocardial abrasion
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a multi-pole catheter where only specific electrodes that are in good contact with the endocardium deliver RF energy, rather than using the entire basket structure. This localized approach concentrates the ablation effect at the target site while minimizing contact with and potential damage to surrounding endocardial tissue, reducing the risk of abrasion.
4Measurement precision
If manual manipulation of MPDC is used for precise mapping, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming manual navigation
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time visual feedback by displaying the recommended direction and distance of catheter travel on a map based on electrogram signal analysis. This feedback loop allows the operator to quickly navigate to the next optimal measurement location without time-consuming manual exploration, significantly improving mapping efficiency while maintaining high precision through automated guidance.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for guiding a sensor to locate a source of a propagating wave. The methods involve: presenting an electronic display comprising an image representing an object in which the sensor is placed and a visual indicator representing the sensor; receiving signals generated by electrodes while the sensor resides at a first location in the object; determining a First Recommended Direction of Travel ("FRDT") for the sensor based on the received signals; using the FRDT to generate a mask that is to cover at least a portion of the image representing a portion of the object that is absent of the source; and modifying the electronic display to include the mask overlaid on top of the image and an arrow showing FRDT.