Background: The arctic front cryoballon (AF-CB)
provides effective and durable pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) associated with
encouraging clinical outcome data. The POLARx cryoballoon incorporates unique
features which may translate into improved efficacy and safety.
Methods: Fifty-nine
consecutive patients with paroxysmal or persistent atrial fibrillation (AF)
were prospectively enrolled, underwent POLARx based PVI. Safety and efficacy
were assessed.
Results: In
59 patients (mean age 67±5 years, 35/59, 59%
paroxysmal AF) a total of 236 pulmonary veins (PV) were identified and 234/236,
99,1% PVs were successfully isolated utilizing the POLARx. The mean minimal
cryoballoon temperature was -57±7°C. Real-time PVI was visualized in 83% of patients.
Despite a certain learning curve utilizing the POLARx the mean procedure time 50±15 minutes. Concerning
periprocedural complications 4 phrenic nerve injuries (6.8%), 1 minor bleeding
(1.7%) and 1 (1.7%) transient air embolism has been observed.
Conclusions: The novel
POLARx shows a promising safety and efficacy profile. Further studies are
necessary to draw final conclusion.