The use of a standard radiofrequency energy delivery system to facilitate transseptal puncture.
Transseptal puncture is a standard means of catheter access to the left atrium via the venous system, but carries a risk of cardiac perforation. Stretching and increased force to traverse the septum are required with elastic, aneurysmal, or thickened interatrial tissue. We describe a technique that facilitates transseptal puncture by applying brief pulses of radiofrequency energy from a standard electrosurgical cautery generator through the needle tip.
McWilliams
Michael J
MJ
cmmcwilliams@yahoo.com
Tchou
Patrick
P
D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D006346:Heart Septum / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D009339:Needles