Johnson & Johnson (J&J) MedTech has announced the US launch of the Soundstar Crystal ultrasound catheter for intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) imaging in cardiac ablation procedures.
The device provides clearer, enhanced image quality compared to other ICE catheters, J&J MedTech claims, thus representing an advanced 2D ICE catheter.
“During the cases I performed with the Soundstar Crystal ultrasound catheter, I was impressed by the clear visualisation, tissue definition and enhanced far-field imaging, and full integration with other platforms,” said Amin Al-Ahmad (St David’s HealthCare, Austin, USA). “Integration with the Carto 3 system provides clear, high-resolution images, which simplify the anatomical mapping process and procedure workflow.”
Integrated with the company’s Carto 3 mapping system, including the Cartosound FAM module for enhanced mapping capabilities powered by artificial intelligence (AI), Soundstar Crystal provides an “efficient” workflow. In addition, Cartosound FAM enables automatic generation of the left atrial anatomy by a novel AI algorithm using images collected from a rotation of the ultrasound catheter in the right atrium, “simplifying” the integrated workflow for electrophysiologists performing cardiac ablation procedures, according to a J&J MedTech press release.
“We are proud to advance our legacy in integrated ultrasound catheters with this latest innovation that equips electrophysiologists with the tools they need to promote patient safety and drive effective results,” said Jasmina Brooks, president of electrophysiology at J&J MedTech. “The superior image quality, improved catheter manoeuvrability and stability of the Soundstar Crystal ultrasound catheter along with seamless Carto 3 system integration can help enable a zero-fluoroscopy workflow, enhancing procedure effectiveness and safety for both healthcare professionals and patients they treat.”
The Soundstar Crystal ultrasound catheter is the latest addition to J&J’s portfolio of ultrasound solutions. The company recently brought forward the Nuvision catheter, which harnesses advanced 4D imaging to assist physicians performing cardiac procedures like left atrial appendage closure (LAAC).
