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Identification of targets for catheter ablation of ventricular tachycardias (VTs) remains a significant challenge. VTs are often driven by re-entrant circuits resulting from a complex interaction between the front (activation) and tail (repolarization) of the electrical wavefront. Most mapping techniques do not take into account the tissue repolarization which may hinder the detection of ablation targets. The re-entry vulnerability index (RVI), a recently proposed mapping procedure, incorporates both activation and repolarization times to uncover VT circuits. The method showed potential in a series of experiments, but it still requires further development to enable its incorporation into a clinical protocol. Here, in-silico experiments were conducted to thoroughly assess RVI maps constructed under clinically-relevant mapping conditions. Within idealized as well as anatomically realistic infarct models, we show that parameters of the algorithm such as the search radius can significantly alter the specificity and sensitivity of the RVI maps. When constructed on sparse grids obtained following various placements of clinical recording catheters, RVI maps can identify vulnerable regions as long as two electrodes were placed on both sides of the line of block. Moreover, maps computed during pacing without inducing VT can reveal areas of abnormal repolarization and slow conduction but not directly vulnerability. In conclusion, the RVI algorithm can detect re-entrant circuits during VT from low resolution mapping grids resembling the clinical setting. Furthermore, RVI maps may provide information about the underlying tissue electrophysiology to guide catheter ablation without the need of inducing potentially harmful VT during the clinical procedure. Finally, the ability of the RVI maps to identify vulnerable regions with specificity in high resolution computer models could potentially improve the prediction of optimal ablation targets of simulation-based strategies., Highlights • Safe and accurate detection of targets for catheter ablation remains a challenge. • We conducted a thorough assessment of the Re-entry Vulnerability Index (RVI). • Parameters of the algorithm can alter the specificity and sensitivity of RVI maps. • When constructed on sparse grids RVI maps could still detect arrhythmogenic sites. • In absence of arrhythmia, RVI maps revealed abnormal sites, but not vulnerability.

This study sought to test the feasibility of a purpose-built, integrated software platform to process, analyze, and overlay cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) data in real time within a combined cardiac catheter laboratory and magnetic resonance imaging scanner suite (X-MRI) to guide left ventricular (LV) lead implantation.Suboptimal LV lead position is a major determinant of poor cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) response, and the optimal site is highly patient specific. Pacing myocardial scar is associated with poorer outcomes; conversely, targeting latest mechanical activation (LMA) may improve them.Fourteen patients (age 74 ± 5.1 years; New York Heart Association functional class: 2.7 ± 0.4; 86% ischemic with ejection fraction 27 ± 7.6%; QRSd: 157 ± 19 ms) underwent CMR followed by immediate CRT implantation using derived scar and dyssynchrony data, overlaid onto fluoroscopy in an X-MRI suite. Rapid LV segmentation enabled detailed scar quantification, identification of LMA segments, and selection of myocardial targets. At coronary venography, the CMR-derived 3-dimensional shell was fused, enabling identification of viable venous targets subtended by target segments for LV lead placement.The platform was successful in all 14 patients, of whom 10 (71%) were paced in pre-procedurally defined target segments. Pacing in CMR-defined target segments (out of scar) showed a significant decrease in the LV capture threshold (mean difference: 2.4 [1.5 to 3.2]; p 0.001) and shorter paced QRS duration (mean difference: 25 [15 to 34]; p 0.001) compared with pacing in areas of CMR determined scar. In 5 (36%) patients with extensive scar in the posterolateral wall, CMR guidance enabled successful lead delivery in an alternative anatomically favorable site. Radiation dose and implant times were similar to historical controls (p = NS).Real-time CMR-guided LV lead placement is feasible and achievable in a single clinical setting and may prove helpful to preferentially select sites for LV lead placement.

Computational modeling of cardiac arrhythmogenesis and arrhythmia maintenance has made a significant contribution to the understanding of the underlying mechanisms of arrhythmia. We hypothesized that a cardiac model using personalized electro-anatomical parameters could define the underlying ventricular tachycardia (VT) substrate and predict reentrant VT circuits. We used a combined modeling and clinical approach in order to validate the concept.Non-contact electroanatomic mapping studies were performed in 7 patients (5 ischemics, 2 non-ischemics). Three ischemic cardiomyopathy patients underwent a clinical VT stimulation study. Anatomical information was obtained from cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) including high-resolution scar imaging. A simplified biophysical mono-domain action potential model personalized with the patients' anatomical and electrical information was used to perform in silico VT stimulation studies for comparison. The personalized in silico VT stimulations were able to predict VT inducibility as well as the macroscopic characteristics of the VT circuits in patients who had clinical VT stimulation studies. The patients with positive clinical VT stimulation studies had wider distribution of action potential duration restitution curve (APD-RC) slopes and APDs than the patient with a negative VT stimulation study. The exit points of reentrant VT circuits encompassed a higher percentage of the maximum APD-RC slope compared to the scar and non-scar areas, 32%, 4%, and 0.2%, respectively.VT stimulation studies can be simulated in silico using a personalized biophysical cardiac model. Myocardial spatial heterogeneity of APD restitution properties and conductivity may help predict the location of crucial entry/exit points of reentrant VT circuits.

We present a case of inadvertent subclavian arterial puncture and lead placement to the left ventricle in a patient undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy. We describe the use of a "push-pull" technique within an arterial setting to allow removal of the lead, while maintaining access through the same puncture to allow an arterial-closure device to then seal the artery at this site. As a result of this percutaneous approach, the patient avoided the need for a vascular surgical procedure.