CT-Electromagnetic Three-Dimensional Tracking for Renal Endovascular Sympathetic Ablation Catheter Positioning in an Animal Model

Abstract Purpose To examine the feasibility of a computed tomography (CT)–guided renal endoarterial ablation procedure. Materials and Methods Five large (40–60 kg) pigs were studied. Abdominal CT images that were obtained preoperatively were registered to the operative field, and subsequent virtual navigation of a multielectrode ablation catheter within the CT environment was performed. The ablation electrodes were visualized using an impedance technique. Ablation lesions were applied within each artery. Histologic analysis was performed to judge accuracy of the catheter location as portrayed in the virtual image. Results The error between virtual and actual lesion locations along the longitudinal plane of the artery was 3.0 mm ± 2.5 (range, 0–6 mm) in the left renal artery and 3.4 mm ± 2.7 (range, 0–7 mm; P = .7) in the right renal artery. The accuracy of circumferential localization of the electrode was 92% in the right artery and 88% in the left artery. Conclusions These data demonstrate that a CT-guided renal artery ablation procedure is feasible.