Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) has become the first hospital in Malaysia to introduce and utilise the TactiFlex™ Duo Ablation Catheter, a dual-energy cardiac ablation system designed to treat complex heart rhythm disorders including atrial fibrillation and ventricular arrhythmias.
The introduction of the technology marks a significant advancement in IJN’s interventional electrophysiology services, reinforcing its position as Malaysia’s leading heart centre and national referral institution for complex cardiac cases.
The TactiFlex™ Duo Ablation Catheter is used in cardiac ablation, a minimally invasive procedure that targets heart tissue responsible for abnormal electrical signals. Unlike conventional systems that rely on a single energy source, the device allows physicians to use both radiofrequency energy and pulsed field ablation during procedures.
This dual-energy capability enables doctors to tailor treatment based on a patient’s anatomy, tissue characteristics and clinical condition. Radiofrequency energy uses heat to treat irregular heart signals, while pulsed field ablation delivers electrical pulses to target abnormal rhythm-causing cells, potentially reducing impact on surrounding tissue in suitable cases.
Datuk Dr. Azlan Hussin, Clinical Director of Interventional Electrophysiology and Implantable Devices and Senior Consultant Cardiologist at IJN, said the technology represents an important step forward in managing complex heart rhythm disorders, offering greater precision and flexibility during procedures. He said the ability to switch between energy types during treatment allows for a more tailored approach depending on each patient’s needs.
He added that the technology supports more personalised ablation therapy, particularly for complex cases where no two patients are exactly the same, and said it complements existing treatment systems rather than replacing them.
Professor Dato’ Sri Dr. Mohamed Ezani Md Taib, Chief Executive Officer of IJN, said being the first in Malaysia to adopt the technology reflects IJN’s commitment to bringing advanced cardiovascular innovations into clinical practice. He added that the focus remains on improving patient outcomes through safe and effective treatment options.
IJN said the new system further strengthens its position as a centre of excellence for heart rhythm disorders, supported by advanced imaging and mapping technologies and multidisciplinary expertise in electrophysiology care.
