Cardiologist makes ‘Magic,’ performs first procedure in US with new-look ablation catheter

Stereotaxis, a St. Louis-based medtech company, announced that its new robotically navigated radiofrequency ablation catheter has been used in the United States for the first time since gaining U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. 

The Magic Magnetic Interventional Ablation Catheter, which the FDA approved back in January, was built specifically to work with Stereotaxis robotic magnetic navigation systems. Electrophysiologists guide the device using computer-controlled magnetic fields, providing high levels of maneuverability, precision and stability. Key features of the Magic catheter include a rounded ablation tip, a helical fluid channel that delivers consistent cooling, and magnets specifically designed to improve navigation.

Nathan McConkey, DO, MPH, an electrophysiologist with Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU), performed the historic ablation procedure on a patient with complex congenital heart disease. They presented to OHSU with a history of atrial flutter requiring cardioversion or pace termination. Prior attempts with manual catheters were unsuccessful. With the Magic catheter, however, McConkey was able to approach the cavotricuspid isthmus from above using the basilic vein in the arm. Weeks later, the patient has not experienced any recurrent symptoms.