#United States #Chicago #Abbott #Heart Rhythm #AFib

Abbott Presents Innovative Solutions to Heart Rhythm Disorders at HRS 2026

Abbott has unveiled significant advancements at the Heart Rhythm Society’s 2026 conference in Chicago, revealing late-breaking clinical data that underscores the efficacy of its therapies in tackling abnormal heart rhythms. Four critical presentations highlighted the strength of both the company’s pulsed field ablation (PFA) and conduction system pacing (CSP) technologies.

Key Highlights from the Presentations

The clinical insights shared included detailed results from the FlexPulse IDE study focusing on the TactiFlex™ Duo Ablation Catheter, Sensor Enabled™, which showed promising outcomes for complex cases of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Additionally, findings from the Volt CE Mark Extension Cohort trial demonstrated the safe and effective use of the Volt™ PFA system in posterior wall ablation cases. Also noteworthy were initial results from studies on Abbott’s investigational UltiSynq™ CSP implantable cardioverter-defibrillator lead and the AVEIR™ CSP leadless pacemaker system.

FlexPulse IDE Study Findings

The FlexPulse trial, which encompasses 188 patients, showcased remarkable results after six months, with:

• - 87% of patients achieving freedom from documented arrhythmias.
• - An exceptional safety profile of 98.3% having no major safety incidents reported.
• - Notably, 93.3% of patients being treated exclusively with PFA, indicating its efficacy in managing complex AFib cases.
• - A high efficiency where 93.9% of patients did not require additional ablation treatments after the initial therapy.

Dr. Jonathan P. Piccini from Duke University Medical Center commented, "The Abbott TactiFlex Duo catheter provides the flexibility of switching seamlessly between radiofrequency and pulsed field ablation, allowing for tailored treatment plans based on individual patient needs."

New Innovations in Pacing Technology

Two additional presentations brought forth Abbott’s investigational pacing technologies aimed at delivering left bundle branch pacing (LBBP). Data from the ASCEND CSP IDE trial highlighted the UltiSynq CSP ICD lead, achieving:

• - A safety record of 97.5% with no major lead-related complications.
• - A high success rates of 99% for meeting left bundle branch area pacing criteria, indicating effective implantation.
• - Extraordinary defibrillation success with 100% overall effectiveness on first shock attempts.

Dr. Rahul N. Doshi remarked on the potential of LBB pacing for enhancing normal heart rhythms: "With this approach, we can provide pacemaker patients with benefits previously limited to those receiving traditional pacing methods."

Volt PFA System Outcomes

From the Volt CE Mark Extension Cohort trial, Abbott shared insights demonstrating a positive safety profile, confirming a lack of patient-related complications even while treating the posterior wall of the heart, with:

• - An average of 4.1 applications per vein, suggesting improved efficiency.
• - These results position the Volt PFA system as a competitive option within the market, as it secured FDA approval and CE Mark last year.

The Future of Cardiac Care

Priya Jagasia, Abbott’s divisional vice president, emphasized the importance of individualized treatment approaches in addressing arrhythmias. "Our comprehensive cardiovascular portfolio is built to empower healthcare professionals to manage diverse arrhythmias more effectively."

As Abbott continues to innovate, the insights shared at the Heart Rhythm Society 2026 lay a strong foundation for future technologies that may further enhance patient outcomes and quality of life. These advancements reaffirm Abbott's commitment to leading the way in cardiovascular health and personalizing patient care.

About Abbott

Abbott is a global healthcare leader committed to enhancing the quality of life through pioneering technologies in diagnostics, medical devices, nutrition, and branded generic medicines, with operations in over 160 countries.