2022, Number 3
Cardiovasc Metab Sci 2022; 33 (3)
Reducing radiation exposure in an electrophysiology lab with the CARTO-UNIVU™ module
Tinoco, Mariana; Cardoso, Filipa; Leite, Sérgio; Calvo, Lucy; Sanfins, Victor; Ribeiro, Sílvia; Lourenço, António
ABSTRACT
Radiofrequency ablation is an effective and safe technique for the treatment of different types of arrhythmias. Radiofrequency ablation is performed using fluoroscopy, a standard navigation guide, which is related to radiation exposure and its well-known harmful effects on patients and laboratory staff. In the last decade, electroanatomic mapping systems have noted a steep development. Despite their indisputable advantages, they do not include information obtained by real-time fluoroscopy. This important limitation is tackled by the new CARTO-UNIVU™ module as it seamlessly combines fluoroscopy images with three-dimensional (3D) electroanatomic mapping into a single accurate 3D view, enabling a pronounced reduction in radiation exposure. We report four cases of our single center first experience of the new CARTO-UNIVU™ module.