Characterization of anatomically compliant linear cardiac lesions created by the CARDIMA radiofrequency surgical...

This study investigated anatomical cardiac linear lesion characteristics created by the CARDIMA RF surgical ablation system. We developed an in vitro porcine cardiac model that simulates cardiac tissue during an on-pump open chest procedure. We used the INTELLITEMP energy management device to deliver RF energy to an 8 electrode, 8 thermocouple deflectable linear surgical probe, to form curvilinear and linear lesions on porcine myocardium. Ablations were at two target temperatures (70 degrees C and 80 degrees C) and durations (60 sec. and 90 sec.). The results show that this system is capable of forming clinically relevant deep and contiguous lesions of desired length.