As the leading annual electrophysiology event, HRS will always bring the latest advancements in pacing, ablation and mapping to the society’s annual meeting. The 2018 edition was no exception and included a few variations on atrial fibrillation (AF) ablations.

Catheter Ablation vs/ Antiarrhythmic Drug Therapy

The big news from the show was the dissemination of the results from the Catheter ABlation vs ANtiarrhythmic Drug Therapy in Atrial Fibrillation (CABANA) trial, sponsored by the NIH in collaboration with industry.  The trial randomized 2,204 patients with AF to catheter ablation or drug therapy, and produced no significant differences between the arms in the trial on the primary endpoint (all-cause mortality, disabling stroke, serious bleeding, or cardiac arrest).  While this may not immediately change practices in either direction, it may shift emphasis to quality of life and AF burden. Already there are calls for complementary trials and additional analysis from the rich data provided by this study.

Future technologies and T3 Labs

While the industry vendors exhibited their newly market released products, several of the scientific sessions discussed up and coming technologies and basic research.  From optogentic pacing (pacing with light) to gene therapy to regain biologic pacemaker cells, future therapies were on display.

At T3 Labs, we have worked with new EP (electrophysiology) technology at all stages.  From model development, to GLP studies for FDA submission to training on released product, T3 has been a partner for numerous EP products.  With an onsite cath lab, EP signal recording capabilities, and experience in catheter access to all chambers of the heart, T3 has the equipment and experience to drive new EP devices to market.  Our peri-procedural imaging (Phillips Allura fluoroscopy and GE intracardiac ultrasound) along with post-operative staining and lesion identification give an accurate picture of the device and its effects on the myocardium.

What to anticipate at HRS 2019 and beyond

  • We should see evidence that implantables – including subcutaneous cardioverter defibrillators and leadless pacemakers – continue to increase communication to work more effectively overall and in concert with each other.
  • We should also see evidence of continuing increase in therapeutic options for AF including new products that increase precision of therapy and reduce the burden of arrhythmias on physicians and patients.

Looking for high-value, industry leading preclinical testing and training?

Are you evaluating your device’s readiness for preclinical testing, or need valuable feedback from clinicians?  T3 has the experience, resources and capabilities to help advance therapies to the market. Visit our website, email info@t3labs.org to schedule a call or fill out this form.