Institut Jantung Negara pioneers a new integrated mapping and ablation system for atrial fibrillation, cutting procedure times and improving patient safety.

KUALA LUMPUR: Institut Jantung Negara has become the first hospital in Asia to clinically utilise the Affera Prism-2 Mapping and Ablation System for treating atrial fibrillation.

This new electrophysiology platform combines advanced heart mapping software with dual-energy ablation technology in a single system.

IJN Senior Consultant Cardiologist Datuk Dr Azlan Hussin said it represents a significant shift in treating complex heart rhythm disorders.

The technology allows specialists to perform detailed mapping and ablation treatment using just one catheter.

“This is unique in the field of electrophysiology. Previously, we required at least two different catheters, one for mapping and another to deliver energy. With this system, we can complete the entire procedure using a single catheter,” he said.

Dr Azlan noted the integration greatly improves procedural efficiency.

Complex cases that once took four and a half to five hours can now be completed in just one to two hours.

He added that IJN introduced the first invasive treatment for atrial fibrillation in Malaysia.

Treatment has now entered a new phase with newer energy sources for safer and more appropriate therapy.

He described AFib, where the heart beats irregularly, as a “growing epidemic” in Malaysia and globally.

This is particularly true among ageing populations where the likelihood of developing irregular rhythms increases.

An estimated 10% to 30% of individuals may develop atrial fibrillation as they age.

If untreated, it can significantly affect quality of life and burden healthcare systems.

Since the system’s rollout in January, IJN has successfully treated 11 patients without complications.

All patients, including government-subsidised and private cases, were discharged the following day.

 The Sun Malaysia