Ramsay Newsroom

Heart rhythm disorders are among the most common cardiovascular conditions in Australia, with around one in four people experiencing an abnormal heart rhythm at some point during their lifetime. Conditions such as atrial fibrillation can significantly increase the risk of stroke, heart failure and sudden cardiac death if left untreated.

The Affera system combines high-resolution three-dimensional cardiac mapping with both radiofrequency and pulsed field ablation capabilities, which can potentially allow cardiologists to identify and treat abnormal heart rhythms with unprecedented precision.

Westmead Private Hospital cardiologist and electrophysiologist Professor Stuart Thomas said the introduction of the technology marked a significant milestone for cardiac care in Australia.

“Introducing Affera at Westmead Private Hospital means Australian patients can now access one of the most advanced heart rhythm treatment technologies available anywhere in the world," Professor Thomas said.

"Heart rhythm disorders affect a significant proportion of the community and as our population ages, the number of people requiring treatment for conditions such as atrial fibrillation is expected to continue growing, making access to advanced technologies like this increasingly important.”

"This technology may be one of the most significant advances we have seen in cardiac electrophysiology in recent years. It enables us to create highly detailed maps of the heart's electrical activity and the potential to deliver treatment with exceptional precision,” he said.

Professor Thomas said the system’s ability to combine advanced mapping with both pulsed field ablation and radiofrequency ablation technologies in a single platform, provided clinicians with greater flexibility and the ability to tailor treatment to each individual patient.

"For patients living with atrial fibrillation and other complex heart rhythm disorders, this technology has the potential to improve treatment precision, reduce procedure times and ultimately deliver better outcomes," he said.

“The Affera system also has the potential to reduce reliance on prolonged X-ray imaging during complex procedures, which is beneficial for both patients and clinical teams.”

Cardiac arrhythmias affect hundreds of thousands of Australians each year, with atrial fibrillation being the most common sustained heart rhythm disorder. If left untreated, arrhythmias can significantly impact quality of life and increase the risk of serious cardiovascular complications.