Positive short term results from combined surgical and electrophysiological approach to treat AF

nContact Surgical, Inc. ("nContact"), a leader in the investigation of devices for minimally-invasive treatment for heart conditions, announced that data from a poster was presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions in Orlando. The study demonstrated that the convergent approach, which combines surgical and electrophysiological expertise, appears to be a good strategy to achieve short term success in patients with long standing persistent atrial fibrillation (AF).

"This study represents the first combined surgical and electrophysiological approach to treat the most challenging AF patients without any chest incisions or ports," said Dr. Rodney Horton, Electrophysiologist at St. David's Medical Center in Austin, Texas. "We are pleased with the results from these initial convergent experiences. All patients left the procedure room in normal sinus rhythm with confirmed pulmonary vein isolation. Additionally, 80 percent of patients remained in normal sinus rhythm and off anti-arrhythmic drugs at six months."

"Historically, long standing persistent atrial fibrillation has been the most challenging form of AF to treat," said Dr. Andrea Natale from the Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Institute at St. David's Medical Center in Austin, Texas. "It is our hope that long-term results from this study and future IDE trials will demonstrate a significant treatment alternative for this AF population."