Background
Trans-septal puncture (TSP) is routinely performed during treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) and other electrophysiology procedures. The purpose of this retrospective observational study was the analysis of a novel needle free technique employed to gain access to the left atrium (LA).
Methods
The SafeSept Needle Free guidewire was delivered, using no needle, to the interatrial septum via a standard cryoablation sheath and dilator under transoesophageal guidance. The wire was then advanced into the LA with position confirmed by fluoroscopy. All cases were performed under general anaeasthetic (GA).
Results
The novel procedure was performed in 43 patients (38 paroxysmal AF (88.4%) and 5 persistent AF (11.4%)) with 100% success rate in accessing the LA. The procedure times (51.70 ±18.18) and fluoroscopy times (2.75 ± 3.35) were recorded. There were no complications seen in the cohort
Conclusions
Using SafeSept Needle Free wire for TSP had a high success rate and resulted in no complications, with the potential to reduce procedure and fluoroscopy times.
Key words: Atrial Fibrillation, Cryoablation, Trans-septal puncture, Needle-Free, Safe-Sept