Initial experience, safety, and feasibility using remote access or onsite technical support for complex ablation...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Technology
• Electrophysiology

Background:

• Electroanatomical mapping (EAM) systems are crucial for cardiac arrhythmia treatment.
• Traditionally, EAM systems require onsite operation by qualified personnel.
• Remote support technology offers a novel approach to accessing EAM systems online.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and safety of remote access for electroanatomical mapping (EAM) in cardiac ablation procedures.
• To compare procedural outcomes between remote-assisted EAM and traditional onsite EAM support.
• To evaluate the impact of remote access on laboratory flexibility and travel burden.

Main Methods:

• Utilized EnsiteX™ EAM system with Ensite™ Connect Remote Support software and Medinbox audiovisual system.
• Employed Zoom™ for communication, headphones, and high-resolution cameras for remote interaction.
• Compared 50 consecutive remote-assisted procedures with 50 matched procedures with onsite support.

Main Results:

• Procedural success rates were comparable (100% in both remote and control groups).
• Complication rates were similar (2% remote vs. 0% control).
• Remote access reduced travel burden by 11,280 km.

Conclusions:

• Remote access for EAM is a feasible and safe method for cardiac ablation.
• Procedural data indicate comparable outcomes to onsite support.
• This technology has the potential to significantly facilitate electrophysiological procedures in the future.