Debating whether to wait for an ablation with access to this new system, which sounds intriguing and is now being used in the UK - anyone know anything more about it? - do read the short article via the link below.
Acutus Medical has offered a demonstration of its AcQMap advanced cardiac imaging and mapping system link here:
“This system will increase the likelihood of using AcQMap for mapping rhythms other than AF” said Simon James, James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, UK. “It takes away the need to decide which system to use in advance, as this system can map any rhythm. AcQMap feels like contact mapping in terms of catheter manipulation, but with the advantages of having more than one mapping option, depending on where the rhythm turns. For the first time, I can truly offer tailored and personalized treatment with rapid, consistent and reproducible results.”
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Regardless of any balance between sales pitch and reality it is worth noting that operator skill is still the most important consideration in my view. I would rather have an ablation done by a highly skilled EP using the older methods than a newly trained one with the latest kit. I do not think that there has been much change in the efficacy of ablation overall for quite a few years. Waiting may perhaps work in your favour against which your AF will become more established and difficult to treat. It's all a balance.
Thanks Bob - useful contextualisation. I’ve not actually had AF diagnosed - just atrial tachycardia - but these regular flutterings after eating and posture-related are new. My wife says I’m too obsessed with always waiting for the best technology (in all areas of life) & that waiting for a new tool is sometimes counterproductive for quality of life. I was interested in this system as my own heart condition has had so many varied daily experiences connected to it. No doubt, as you said, the experience of the person carrying out the procedure is paramount.
I think it will only get rolled out if people (like us on here ) lobby and make a noise about, in the hands of a skilled EP it sounds like it could be a significant advance !
Well if we believe in the efficacy & advancement of science & technology we need to ensure it’s actually applied for the benefit of those who need it - that’s us on both counts!
Agreed, my fear is it will get delayed due to cost, unfortunately that is quite common with the NHS, would be interested to know if the AF Association are pressing for its rollout for all ablations, perhaps Bob may know ?
It would seem that the Glenfield hospital in Leicester is mentioned in both articles. The link I have attached about the Glenfield doesn't mention it as a trial though so I wonder if they are now in full operation .
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