What is TruPlan?
TruPlan™ is a CT imaging software that is used during the pre-procedural planning period for Watchman device implantations. The Watchman device is placed in the heart of patients with atrial fibrillation who are at a high risk of stroke but are unable to take blood-thinning medications.
With TruPlan imaging software, doctors have the ability to visualize and measure areas of the heart and nearby structures during the pre-planning stages of left atrial appendage (LAA) procedures.
Working in collaboration with Valley’s Cardiac Imaging team, the Valley heart team is capable of digitally recreating a patient’s heart using TruPlan to determine the best method to implant the Watchman device as safely and effectively as possible.
The Valley Hospital’s Snyder Center for Comprehensive Atrial Fibrillation is the first center in the world to use this leading-edge imaging software in Watchman implant procedures.
Benefits of the TruPlan Software
Doctors who perform the Watchman procedure look to minimize a patient’s time under anesthesia. This is done by identifying the correct size Watchman device is used beforehand, as well as accurately identifying and locating the exact spot of the LAA where the device should be implanted. No two patients have the same LAA, and critical differences can be seen in shape, orientation, and morphology.
With TruPlan, doctors can visualize the heart in advance of the Watchman procedure, which can eliminate the need to adjust the Watchman device sizing or delivery sheath during the procedure. This reduces time under anesthesia and results in reduced risks and post-procedural complications.
“Our goal at Valley is to stay ahead of the curve in delivering the safest and most efficacious results through minimally invasive procedures like the Watchman. We feel TruPlan and the new WATCHMAN FLX device offer patients those safer alternatives. We are proud to be the first in the world to utilize this revolutionary software, allowing us to more safely and expertly care for our patients with atrial fibrillation.”
— Suneet Mittal, MD, Medical Director, Snyder Center for Comprehensive Atrial Fibrillation
