A System and Method for Real-Time Ventricular Arrhythmia Localization and Catheter Navigation Using Surface ECG

Unmet Need
Ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) are common arrhythmias associated with morbidity, mortality, and impaired quality of life. The current treatment for VAs is a catheter ablation procedure. This procedure is considered moderately successful at best and the success rate dramatically increases when the ablation is performed by experienced operators. The risk of adverse outcomes in a catheter ablation procedure can be decreased by standardizing the procedure process and timing and by simplifying it such that it can be performed even by less experienced electrophysiologists. There is also a need for real-time navigational feedback to assist the operator in VA origin localization.
 
Technology Overview
The invention is a system that provides real-time navigational guidance so that the operating electrophysiologist can reach the origin of the VA. It reduces the need for experienced operators, allowing less experienced operators to rely on the system’s knowledge. The technology reduces “trial-and-error” attempts at catheterization, because it guides the operator closer to the origin and continuously updates the predicted location of the VA with each application. Finally, this system reduces procedure time, which reduces both adverse patient outcomes and patient costs.
 
Stage of Development
The inventors are currently developing and testing a prototype of their algorithm and navigational system.

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