CardioFocus, Inc., developer of the HeartLight® Endoscopic Ablation System (EAS) for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF), announces its technology is now available in the Netherlands. Physicians at Isala Klinieken in Zwolle were the first in the country to incorporate visually guided ablation into their regular therapeutic practice and have successfully treated several patients.
Arif Elvan, MD, who led the first cases, said, "The HeartLight EAS technology presents a unique approach to AF ablation, offering direct, real-time visualization inside a beating heart , as well as remarkable ease of use for physician operators. Our clinical experience to date is in line with research showing the high acute efficacy of the system, and we are excited to bring this innovative treatment option to patients in the Netherlands."
The HeartLight EAS is a unique catheter ablation technology that incorporates an endoscope for direct visualization and a compliant, dynamically adjustable balloon catheter designed for improved contact with the pulmonary vein (PV) ostium irrespective of the individual patient anatomy. It also utilizes laser energy for more efficient, durable and precise ablation treatment. Research has demonstrated an acute PV isolation rate of 99%, with approximately 77% of patients achieving durable freedom from AF after a single procedure.
"Isala Klinieken is one of the premier cardiology centers in the country and we are pleased they have chosen to incorporate the HeartLight EAS technology into their AF treatment offering," said Stephen Sagon, President and CEO of CardioFocus. "Within the last year, our technology has entered into several new countries and become established at numerous European sites. We look forward to building on this momentum and continuing adoption of HeartLight EAS throughout Europe."
HeartLight EAS is currently available in the Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, the UK and now the Netherlands.
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