The Beacon Hospital, Dublin, has become the first hospital in the world to use the newest version of Prism-2 software for the Affera Mapping and Ablation System by Medtronic in a clinical setting.

The Affera System is used to treat patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), which can lead to stroke, heart failure and other cardiovascular complications. The Affera system allows physicians to accurately map and safely ablate with all-in-one HD mapping and dual-energy functionality.

Prism-2 introduces a number of software advancements designed to support more streamlined workflows. These include enhanced navigation capabilities that allow clinicians to visualise both sensor-based and non-sensor-based catheters during procedures, supporting accurate mapping and treatment delivery. The update also enables low- or zero-fluoroscopy workflows, helping to minimise radiation exposure for both patients and clinical teams.

Additional advancements in the Prism-2 software include simplified Cath Lab setup, with improved connectivity to recording systems, direct digital ECG signal acquisition and streamlined procedure preparation. Prism-2 will serve as the foundation for future developments on the Affera system. 

The upgraded system was first used by Prof Jonathan Lyne, Director of Cardiac Electrophysiology & Consultant Electrophysiologist at the Beacon Hospital, in a Cath Lab procedure last month.

A statement from the hospital said: “This global first reflects the ongoing collaboration between Beacon Hospital’s clinical, technical and operational teams and the hospital’s continued commitment to investing in advanced technologies that support patient-focused care.”

Previously, the Beacon Hospital was among the first five hospitals worldwide to adopt the Affera system and, earlier this year, became the first centre to complete 250 procedures using the system. The introduction of Prism-2 is expected to build on this experience, with enhanced procedural efficiency, clinical insight and future capabilities within the Cath Lab.

Last month also saw the official launch of the hospital’s new Siemens SOMATOM Pro.Pulse CT system, the first and only installation of its kind in Ireland. The new scanner is dedicated exclusively to CT coronary angiography (CTCA), and is expected to double the daily CTCA capacity.

The SOMATOM Pro.Pulse offers enhanced image quality, motion correction and ultra-low radiation doses, and incorporates AI-powered workflow assistance to personalise scans and improve efficiency. The system has the added benefit of air-cooling and an integrated generator, and so consumes less power.

Speaking at the opening of the new service, Patricia Egan, Director of Radiology at the Beacon Hospital said: “This new CT scanner is more than just equipment, it is a symbol of Beacon Hospital’s commitment to innovation and excellence. It represents our promise to our community, our patients, our referrers and our clinicians, to provide the highest quality care using advanced technology.”