Real-time ultrasound imaging to enable predictable Pulsed Field Ablation

Real-time feedback under treatment conditions

PFA is rapidly becoming a standard treatment, but first-time success rates of 70-80% remain suboptimal due to a lack of direct localized feedback. Ultrasound is known to give this feedback in clinical situations. However, under treatment conditions, the technical challenge is significant: ultrasound sensing must operate reliably amidst high-voltage pulses of up to 3 kV. Project PFUS develops the required advanced system control and signal processing to enable an ultrasound information loop, providing electrophysiologists with the critical feedback needed to ensure a successful first time-right intervention.

Synergetic collaboration between SME and Academia

The consortium bridges SonicPrecision’s expertise in ultrasound engineering with CARIM’s (Maastricht UMC+) leadership in translational arrhythmia research. Together, we investigate how ultrasound signals behave during PFA and identify ultrasound sensing parameters that correlate with desired lesion formation. By thoroughly addressing bottlenecks in signal integrity and tissue characterization, we advance this technology from a laboratory concept (TRL 4) toward validation in a relevant preclinical environment (TRL 5-6).

Economic impact and platform potential

This project reinforces the Netherlands' leading position in medical technology demonstrated in the domain of cardiac rhythm disorders. The developed sensing technology serves as a versatile platform potentially applicable to other fields, such as tumor ablation and renal denervation. By reducing repeat procedures by an estimated 25%, we can achieve substantial healthcare cost savings in the Netherlands. Furthermore, a successful project will drive expansion of high-tech manufacturing and R&D-intensive employment within the Dutch MedTech ecosystem.