First experience of POLARx™ versus Arctic Front Advance™: An early technology comparison

Introduction Cryoballoon ablation is an established technique to achieve pulmonary vein isolation in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Recently, a new manufacturer of cryoballoon achieved regulatory CE marking (POLARx™; Boston Scientific). We describe our early experience using this market entrant the technology and procedural aspects comparison incumbent Medtronic Arctic Front Advance™. Methods assessed first 40 AF ablations performed POLARx catheter at Barts Heart Centre. These were compared contemporaneous series undergoing by same operators Advance. Procedural metrics prospectively recorded. Results A total four undertook cases catheter, Procedure times (60.0 vs. 60.0 min) similar between two technologies, however left dwell time (35.0 vs 39.0 fluoroscopy (3.3 5.2 higher POLARx. Measured nadir balloon temperatures significantly lower Almost all veins isolated median freezing 16.0 (POLARx) versus 15.0 (Arctic Advance) min. The rate complications was low both groups. Conclusion effective for isolation. are predicate Advance catheter. appears acute efficacy has short learning curve, but formal dosing studies may be required prove equivalence efficacy.