Attaching LV electrode leads to the heart when implanting cardiac resynchronization therapy pacemakers and defibrillators (CRT-P and CRT-D) requires quite a bit of precision and knowledge of vessel locations on each patient. Medtronic just released its CardioGuide Implant System, a 3D imaging system developed by Paieon Inc. that generates 3-D images of the cardiac veins. In combination with a fluoroscope, the system overlays previously prepared venogram model images onto the virtual representation of the heart and tracks the leads in real time as they are advanced toward the target.
The hope is that the new system will lead to shorter procedure times, allowing physicians to quickly position leads exactly where needed, which in turn will improve the effectiveness of implanted devices and lead to better outcomes for patients.
The CardioGuide Implant System helps implanters:
- Determine their preferred lead location
- Identify proper delivery tools
- Confirm that a lead is placed in the targeted location, using the system’s lead navigation and tracking capability under live fluoroscopy
Product page: Medtronic CardioGuide Implant System…
Press release: CardioGuide System Enables Real-Time Navigation of Left Ventricular Leads During Medtronic CRT Implants