Clinical & Experimental Cardiology
Open Access

Abstract

Effect of Standard versus Radiofrequency Transseptal Puncture on Structural Heart Fellow Training: A Single Center Experience

Baran Aksut1,3, Phillip A. Smith2, Ashley Reed1, Amr M. Sabouni1, Hassan Alkhawam1,3, Mustafa Ahmed1*

Background: A number of systems have recently been developed to assist in transseptal puncture for structural heart procedures. The effect of the systems on training newer operators is unknown. Objectives: This was a single center experience of a Radiofrequency (RF) transseptal system utilization to determine if there were advantages in training as compared to standard needle-based systems. Methods: Data was collected on 87 consecutive transseptal punctures for structural heart procedures involving structural heart fellows at a single institution. Data time points in crossing transeptal above a Z-score of two were excluded. Results: Procedure types were evenly matched in each arm RF vs. BRK. Average time to transseptal puncture with wire or needle across septum was shorter in the RF arm at 203.7 seconds versus 281.9 seconds in the BRK arm (P value=0.0009). Average time for sheath across septum was shorter in the RF arm at 82.4 seconds versus 124.2 seconds in the BRK arm (P value=0.02). The attending physician had to perform judgment-based hands-on assist with septal crossing in 28% BRK cases vs. 7% RF cases (P value=0.02). No adverse events occurred in either arm. Conclusion: Although both standard and RF transseptal puncture methods were associated with exceptional safety, use of the RF system allowed for a more independent, efficient hands-on training experience.

Published Date: 2024-05-30; Received Date: 2024-04-30