CardioFocus has announced that the HeartLight Endoscopic Ablation System (EAS) for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) is now available for clinical use in Australia. Monash Medical Centre in Melbourne is the first cardiology centre in the country to offer this catheter ablation treatment.
Emily Kotschet, electrophysiologist, Monash Heart, Monash Medical Centre said: “We are excited to bring this treatment option to patients in Australia, where nearly half a million people suffer with atrial fibrillation. Clinical data out of Europe with the HeartLight EAS system have been excellent, demonstrating high acute success and durable efficacy as compared with traditional treatment modalities. The system is straightforward to set up and easy to use. The balloon is compliant, which provides good complete occlusion of each pulmonary vein, and subsequently excellent views of the veins to deliver the laser energy. Our own initial experiences have been promising in treating patients with symptomatic AF. We look forward to continuing to integrate the technology into our practice at Monash Heart.”
The HeartLight EAS is the first and only catheter ablation technology to incorporate an endoscope for direct visualisation of the inside of the heart, which research is suggesting may contribute to the high rates of acute and durable pulmonary vein isolation achievable with the system. It also features a compliant, dynamically adjustable balloon catheter designed for improved contact with the area surrounding the pulmonary veins, irrespective of the individual patient anatomy, and utilises laser energy for more efficient and precise ablation treatment.
Stephen Sagon, president and CEO of CardioFocus, said, “Entering into Australia represents another milestone for CardioFocus and speaks to the value that clinicians throughout the world are experiencing with our technology. We are pleased that such a renowned cardiology care centre is leading the way in introducing the HeartLight EAS, and we plan to respond to demand for the technology at prominent centres across the country in the coming months.”
In addition to Australia, the system is available throughout Europe and is currently undergoing a pivotal, premarket approval clinical trial in the USA.
