Mastering the Art of Epicardial Access in Cardiac Electrophysiology

Access to the epicardial space is fundamental to several cardiac procedures. Whilst traditional indications include catheter ablation of ventricular arrhythmias and accessory pathways, novel indications include left atrial appendage occlusion, esophageal protection, mapping and ablation during atrial fibrillation procedures, implantation of epicardial pacing leads, and phrenic nerve displacement to facilitate safe ablation of arrhythmias. Accessing the epicardial space safely is a major challenge requiring intimate knowledge of cardiac anatomy, extensive training and expertise.
Source: Heart Rhythm - Category: Cardiology Authors: Source Type: research