QUEENSLAND FIRST

Images from a more commonly used technology. Patients are subjected to X-Ray (radiation) exposure. This technology only provides 2D images, therefore it can be difficult to locate the precise catheter position.

Greenslopes Private introduces new treatment for heart rhythm problems

7 February 2005

Greenslopes Private Hospital now offers the latest technology in treating difficult heart rhythm problems; the first of its kind available in Queensland.

The Carto 3D Mapping system, used for the first time in Queensland today, can cure rhythm problems from deep within the heart without the need for major surgery.

The system uses sophisticated localisation technology to identify the exact area of diseased muscle in the heart, which is causing irregular heart rhythms. These rhythms are common in patients who experience heart palpitations and can cause heart failure and severe limitations in a person’s quality of life.

Greenslopes Private Hospital Chair of Cardiology Dr Narendra Kewal said as cardiovascular disease remains the biggest killer of Australians (claiming a life every 10 minutes), it is important to be able to provide the necessary cutting-edge technology to care for the community.

This technology provides a 3D representation of the heart which is accurate to within one millimetre (1mm) variance. The Carto 3D is able to notate the image to look at all surfaces of the heart. It provides information regarding the electrical activity of the heart and electrical disturbances known as arrhythmias. Arrhythmias cause the heart to beat out of time, and are commonly felt as palpitations.
In welcoming this latest innovation, Dr Kewal said the introduction of the Carto 3D Mapping System was another first for the Hospital’s comprehensive cardiac service.

This technology provides a 3D representation of the heart which is accurate to within one millimetre (1mm) variance. The Carto 3D is able to notate the image to look at all surfaces of the heart. It provides information regarding the electrical activity of the heart and electrical disturbances known as arrhythmias. Arrhythmias cause the heart to beat out of time, and are commonly felt as palpitations.

“This system further complements our existing cardiac services and coronary care unit, which is now the State’s largest unit of its kind,” he said.

Cardiologist, Dr Stephen Pavia who performed Queensland’s first 3D case said the procedure involved placing fine wires in the femoral vein in the groin.

“The 3D procedure maps the diseased areas and then uses radio waves to destroy the abnormal cells with great accuracy; destroying these diseased cells allows the heart to return to its normal rhythm,” he said.

“Previously such accuracy in diagnosis and treatment was not possible as this technology was unavailable in Queensland.”

There are several cardiologists at Greenslopes Private Hospital who have trained extensively with this technology in the United States and can now offer the treatment.

The Hospital’s new coronary care unit and cardiac catheterisation laboratories were opened in May 2004 by Premier Peter Beattie who said Greenslopes Private Hospital was clearly one of the leaders in the Smart State.