In situ needle deflection technique using a steerable introducer for site-selective radiofrequency transseptal puncture.

Transseptal puncture (TP) is a prerequisite for gaining access to the left atrium. Selection of a puncture site in the fossa ovalis can impact on catheter ablation of left atrial arrhythmias. However, TP sometimes requires a needle shape modification in vitro, which can make it difficult to accomplish site-selective TP. This report illustrated a novel needle deflection technique in vivo using a steerable introducer. This in situ needle deflection technique is useful in excluding the needle shape modification in vitro and achieving fine adjustment of the needle curve in vivo, thus contributing to site-selective radiofrequency TP and reducing procedure time.