Using Topology To Revolutionize Atrial Tachycardia Treatment

Introduction

Atrial tachycardia (AT) is a prevalent form of supraventricular tachycardia that can have detrimental impacts on a person's health. The complexity of anatomical reentry patterns and unclear nomenclature hinders precise diagnosis of AT and makes optimal treatment challenging and error-prone. Suboptimal treatment can result in severe outcomes such as heart failure, stroke, and pacemaker implantation due to overablation-induced atrial dysfunction.

Proposed Solution

In this proposal, we introduce a diagnostic tool called Directed Graph Mapping (DGM), which offers a unique classification system based on clear and precise mathematical criteria using topological principles. This allows for the accurate diagnosis and differentiation of various types of AT.

Features of DGM

• DGM can automatically analyze a given case of AT, providing consistent and reliable results.
• It paves the way for the optimization of the ablation strategy.
• DGM can not only diagnose the current AT but also predict hidden slower ATs, which might appear depending on the chosen ablation target.

By being able to predict the hidden ATs, we can revolutionize the treatment of ATs, as these hidden ATs can be treated already after the measurement of the first anatomical map. Therefore, our tool holds the potential to significantly expedite the ablation procedure.

Study Proposal

We propose to conduct a prospective study involving a minimum of 15 hospitals in Belgium that specialize in AT ablations. This study aims to further validate the effectiveness and sustainability of our proposed solution while involving a broad range of electrophysiologists. We aim to publish our results in a high-impact journal.

Intellectual Property and Market Interest

We secured the intellectual property rights of our proof-of-concept through two patents. By discussing with electrophysiologists, we learned that their interest in DGM influences mapping systems. If they recognize the value of DGM for treating AT, mapping companies may adopt the technology through a licensing agreement, which is the final goal of this proposal.