Johnson & Johnson MedTech Launches SOUNDSTAR CRYSTAL in the US

The device provides clearer, enhanced image quality compared to other ICE cathetersii, representing an advanced 2D ICE catheter. Integrated with CARTO™ 3 Mapping Systemi, including the CARTOSOUND™ FAM module for enhanced mapping capabilities powered by AI, SOUNDSTAR CRYSTAL™ provides an efficient workflowi. CARTOSOUND FAM enables automatic generation of the left atrial anatomy by a novel artificial intelligence algorithm using images collected from a rotation of the ultrasound catheter in the right atrium, simplifying the integrated workflowi for electrophysiologists performing cardiac ablation procedures for patients.

“We are proud to advance our legacy in integrated ultrasound catheters with this latest innovation that equips electrophysiologists with the tools they need to promote patient safety and drive effectivei results,” said Jasmina Brooks, President, Electrophysiology, Johnson & Johnson MedTech. “The superior image quality, improved catheter maneuverabilityii and stability of the SOUNDSTAR CRYSTAL Ultrasound Catheter, along with seamless CARTO™ 3 System integrationi can help enable a zero fluoroscopy workflow, enhancing procedure effectiveness and safety for both healthcare professionals and patients they treat.”

ICE is broadly used in catheter ablation procedures to visualize the heart in high resolution to monitor catheter-tissue contact and ablation in real-time and quickly detect procedural complications. When real-time imaging is integrated with a 3D electroanatomical mapping system, such as the CARTO 3 System, ICE can help reconstruct cardiac anatomy and enable zero-fluoroscopy procedures. ICE-guided electrophysiology procedures can be performed under conscious sedation, without requiring esophageal intubation and additional anesthesia.

“During the cases I performed with the SOUNDSTAR CRYSTAL Ultrasound Catheter, I was impressed by the clear visualization, tissue definition and enhanced far field imaging, and full integration with other platforms. Integration with the CARTO 3 System provides clear, high-resolution images which simplify the anatomical mapping process and procedure workflow,” said Amin Al-Ahmad, MDx, St. David’s HealthCare, Austin, TX.

The SOUNDSTAR CRYSTAL Ultrasound Catheter is the latest addition to a comprehensive portfolio of ultrasound solutions at Johnson & Johnson MedTech. The company recently brought forward the NUVISION™ Catheter, which harnesses advanced 4D imaging to assist physicians performing cardiac procedures, such as Left Atrial Appendage Closure (LAAC).

Cardiac arrhythmias are a growing epidemic. AFib alone is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia and impacts more than 50 million people worldwide, and 8 million people in the U.S6. AFib is a progressive disease, and if left untreated can get worse over time or lead to other serious complications like heart disease or stroke. Catheter ablation is a safe and effective procedure to restore the heart’s incorrect electrical signals, which causes an abnormal heart rhythm.

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