Comparison between remotely supported nurse-led electro-anatomic mapping and standard onsite engineer support for...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Electrophysiology
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Complex cardiac arrhythmias necessitate advanced guidance systems.
• Electro-anatomic mapping (EAM) systems are standard for catheter ablations.
• Current EAM relies on onsite engineer support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare remotely supported nurse-led EAM with standard onsite engineer support.
• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of nurse-led EAM.
• To assess the practicality of EAM in various settings.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective observational study of 166 patients.
• Comparison of remotely supported nurse-led EAM (82 patients) versus standard onsite engineer support (84 patients).
• Analysis of procedural characteristics, acute results, and complication rates for complex and non-complex procedures.

Main Results:

• Both EAM approaches demonstrated similar procedural outcomes and complication rates.
• Nurse-led EAM showed comparable success rates for atrial fibrillation and related tachycardias.
• The standard onsite group experienced longer ablation times and increased fluoroscopy use, likely due to more complex cases.

Conclusions:

• Remotely supported nurse-led EAM is a practical and safe alternative.
• This approach holds significant potential for future adoption, especially in remote or underserved areas.
• Nurse-led EAM can optimize resource utilization in electrophysiology labs.