Characterization of anatomically compliant linear cardiac lesions created by the CARDIMA® radiofrequency surgical ablation system

This study investigated anatomical cardiac linear lesion characteristics created by the CARDIMA® RF surgical ablation system. We developed an in vitro porcine cardiac model that simulates cardiac tissue during an on-pump open chest procedure. We used the INTELLITEMP® energy management device to deliver RF energy to an 8 electrode, 8 thermocouple deflectable linear surgical probe, to form curvilinear and linear lesions on porcine myocardium. Ablations were at two target temperatures (70°C and 80°C) and durations (60 sec. and 90 sec.). The results show that this system is capable of forming clinically relevant deep and contiguous lesions of desired length.