Mater Private Network first in Europe to join FARADIGM trial of next-generation AF Ablation Technology
Mater Private Network has announced its participation in the FARADIGM clinical trial, a global study evaluating the safety and effectiveness of Boston Scientific's FaraFlex™ Mapping and Pulsed Field Ablation Catheter for the treatment of patients with paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). Mater Private Network is among the first centres worldwide to participate in the study, and the first in Europe to use the integrated mapping and pulsed field ablation technology.
The FARADIGM trial combines high-density cardiac mapping with pulsed field ablation, enabling physicians to map the heart's electrical activity in greater detail before delivering targeted therapy. By integrating mapping and treatment into a single platform, the technology has the potential to support more personalised treatment planning and greater procedural precision for patients with complex cardiac arrhythmias.
Irish involvement in the global trial will be led by Prof. Gábor Széplaki, head of cardiac electrophysiology at Mater Private Network in Dublin, who is a member of the study steering committee.
Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, affecting an estimated 12.9 million people across Europe. Left untreated, it significantly increases the risk of stroke, heart failure and other cardiovascular complications, making continued innovation in treatment an important priority for clinicians and healthcare systems alike.
Commenting on the trial, Prof. Gábor Széplaki said: “Mater Private Network has a long-standing commitment to advancing the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias through clinical research and innovation. Being among the first centres globally to participate in the FARADIGM trial, and the first in Europe to use this technology, reflects our commitment to ensuring patients have access to the latest developments in electrophysiology.
“Atrial fibrillation affects millions of people worldwide and can substantially raise the risk of stroke and heart failure if left untreated. Integrating detailed cardiac mapping with pulsed field ablation will allow us to map the heart's electrical activity in greater detail, creating the potential to deliver a more precise, targeted, and ultimately more effective treatment to our patients. As a hospital, we pride ourselves in being a leader in cardiovascular medicine and research, and we are proud to contribute to the international evidence base evaluating this promising technology.”
Should the FARADIGM trial demonstrate favourable safety and effectiveness outcomes, the technology could help expand treatment options for patients with both paroxysmal and persistent AF, while supporting more precise and individualised ablation procedures. The study represents an important step in the continued evolution of pulsed field ablation, an emerging technology that has transformed the field of cardiac electrophysiology in recent years.
Mater Private Network's participation further strengthens its role within an international network of leading centres helping to evaluate next-generation cardiovascular technologies and shape future standards of care for patients with atrial fibrillation.
As Ireland's leading provider of specialist cardiovascular services, Mater Private Network continues to invest in advanced technologies, multidisciplinary expertise and international clinical research, reinforcing its position as a leader in cardiovascular medicine and research and ensuring patients have early access to the latest evidence-based treatments.