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J&J MedTech Rolls Out Ultrasound Imaging Catheter for Cardiac Ablation

The Soundstar Crystal intracardiac echocardiography catheter touts an 88-element phased linear array for improved image quality and detailed visualization.

The Soundstar Crystal intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) catheter used in cardiac ablation. Photo: Johnson & Johnson MedTech.

Johnson & Johnson MedTech has launched its Soundstar Crystal ultrasound catheter for intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) imaging in cardiac ablation, in the U.S.

The ultrasound catheter touts an 88-element phased linear array for improved image quality and detailed visualization of intricate anatomical structures in the heart. It integrates with the Carto 3 system for a comprehensive, efficient workflow during catheter ablations, J&J said.

According to the company, the advanced 2D ICE catheter offers clearer, enhanced image quality compared to other ICE catheters. When used with Carto 3’s Cartosound FAM module, Soundstar Crystal can help automatically generate the left atrial anatomy via an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm using images gathered from ultrasound catheter rotation in the right atrium.

ICE is used in catheter ablation to visualize the heart in high resolution to monitor catheter-tissue contact and ablation in real-time and quickly spot complications. Real-time imaging combined with a 3D electroanatomical mapping system can help reconstruct cardiac anatomy and allow zero-fluoroscopy procedures, the company said.

ICE-guided electrophysiology procedures can be done under conscious sedation, without needing to intubate the esophagus and use additional anesthesia. Soundstar Crystal adds to J&J MedTech’s ultrasound solutions, including the Nuvision 4D imaging catheter for procedures like left atrial appendage closure (LAAC).

“We are proud to advance our legacy in integrated ultrasound catheters with this latest innovation that equips electrophysiologists with the tools they need to promote patient safety and drive effective results,” said Jasmina Brooks, president, Electrophysiology, Johnson & Johnson MedTech. “The superior image quality, improved catheter maneuverability and stability of the SOUNDSTAR CRYSTAL Ultrasound Catheter, along with seamless CARTO 3 System integration can help enable a zero fluoroscopy workflow enhancing procedure effectiveness and safety for both healthcare professionals and patients they treat.”


Jasmina Brooks discusses J&J MedTech’s pulsed field ablation (PFA) technologies in a recent MPO feature article—check it out!

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