Characteristics of the new AtriCure cryoFORM® cryoablation probe for the surgical treatment of cardiac arrhythmias

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Atrial fibrillation has a significant impact on patient mortality and morbidity. In particular, stroke is a frequent complication associated with atrial fibrillation. In recent years, various treatment options have been developed that are based on the elimination of atypical electrically active atrial areas.

Areas covered: This manuscript presents a new cryoablation probe from AtriCure Inc. In addition to describing the characteristics of the probe, we also discuss atrial fibrillation and its surgical therapy options as well as the basics of cryosurgery. The cryoFORM® cryoablation probe is an ablation system developed for cardiothoracic surgeons that utilizes nitrous oxide (N₂O) to create continuous transmural lesions that block propagation of atrial activation. The main features of the probe are an excellent working capacity due to the use of N₂O, high flexibility, and, in combination with the cryoICE® Box V6, an active defrost mode for quick detachment.

Expert commentary: The cryoFORM® ablation probe is a new device for the treatment of atrial fibrillation using N₂O as an energy source. The probe is made from stainless steel and has a corrugated surface, a design that provides a higher flexibility than the cryoICE probe.

KEYWORDS:

• Atrial fibrillation
• surgical ablation
• cryoablation
• cryoFORM ablation probe
• nitrous oxide

Acknowledgment

We would like to thank E. Martinson, PhD, for proofreading the manuscript. Several medical online libraries such as pubMed® and the Cochrane Library were used as sources of information. AtriCure® provided us with information on probe technology and approval information. The data for use in daily life and during cardiac surgery are based on own experience.

Declaration of interest

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties. Writing assistance was provided by Elizabeth A. Martinson, Editorial Office Manager, Franz-Groedel-Institut, Bad Nauheim.

Additional information

Funding

This paper was not funded.