Comparison of Resource Utilization of Pulmonary Vein Isolation
The Value PVI study used a retrospective chart abstraction and review to examine procedural efficiencies between the cryoballoon and point-to-point focal RF catheter performance. Review of the data demonstrated measurable differences that were found during the employment of the cryoballoon system when treating PAF patients. These potential cryoballoon advantages could possibly be used to positively affect hospital resource allocation.
The apparent differences that were observed in this study (procedure time and hospital resources) will have to be confirmed in prospective randomized controlled trials, which are currently ongoing. After these trials are completed, a comparative benefit versus cost/risk assessment can be potentially made by evaluating short- and long-term outcomes of these competing approaches. Importantly, each catheter type was able to achieve >96% acute PVI, and there was no statistically difference between performance with regard to this measurement.
Conclusion
The Value PVI study used a retrospective chart abstraction and review to examine procedural efficiencies between the cryoballoon and point-to-point focal RF catheter performance. Review of the data demonstrated measurable differences that were found during the employment of the cryoballoon system when treating PAF patients. These potential cryoballoon advantages could possibly be used to positively affect hospital resource allocation.
The apparent differences that were observed in this study (procedure time and hospital resources) will have to be confirmed in prospective randomized controlled trials, which are currently ongoing. After these trials are completed, a comparative benefit versus cost/risk assessment can be potentially made by evaluating short- and long-term outcomes of these competing approaches. Importantly, each catheter type was able to achieve >96% acute PVI, and there was no statistically difference between performance with regard to this measurement.
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