MRI-Guided Cardiac Interventions (iCMR)

Our project focuses on advancing iCMR techniques for two key procedures: right heart catheterizations and atrial flutter ablations.

Atrial flutter ablations

We employ iCMR guidance for flutter ablation procedures, where we investigate the relationship between ablation characteristics and resulting lesion characteristics. By leveraging advanced imaging techniques, we strive to optimize ablation outcomes and refine treatment strategies for patients with cardiac arrhythmias.

Right heart catheterizations

In our weekly sessions, we utilize iCMR to perform right heart catheterizations. This involves assessing pressures and volumes across different cardiac compartments while correlating these findings with tissue characteristics and function derived from CMR. We aim to enhance our understanding of cardiovascular dynamics in different patient populations as those with pulmonary hypertension or mitral valve insufficiency.

Ablation lesion characterization

In our research, we conduct pre-ablation imaging as well as post-ablation imaging during both the acute and chronic phases following pulmonary vein isolation ablation in patients with atrial fibrillation. Our focus lies in examining variations in post-ablation lesion characteristics, volumes, and function among patients undergoing different ablation strategies. Additionally, we assess collateral damage, including potential esophageal injury and the development of acquired atrial stiffness after ablation.

Cardiac Response to Ventricular Pacing

Our research also extends to understanding how the heart responds mechanically to diverse ventricular pacing techniques, including cardiac resynchronization therapy, right ventricular pacing, and conduction system pacing. We aim to elucidate the intricate dynamics of these pacing strategies on ventricular function.