Imricor Expands European Reach with MRI-Guided Ablations at Semmelweis University, Budapest
Imricor Medical Systems has initiated its first MRI-guided atrial flutter ablation procedures at Semmelweis University in Budapest, marking a significant expansion of its real-time MRI technology in Europe.
- First MRI-guided atrial flutter ablations performed at Semmelweis University, Budapest
- Semmelweis becomes Hungary’s inaugural site for Imricor’s real-time MRI cardiac ablation
- Vision-MR Ablation Catheter approved in Europe, Saudi Arabia, and New Zealand for atrial flutter
- Imricor’s European sales team nearly fully staffed, signaling aggressive regional expansion
- Ongoing VISABL-VT trial aims to broaden clinical applications and improve patient outcomes
Imricor Breaks New Ground in Hungary
Imricor Medical Systems (ASX: IMR) has announced a milestone with the commencement of MRI-guided atrial flutter ablation procedures at Semmelweis University’s Heart and Vascular Centre in Budapest. This marks the first time Imricor’s real-time MRI technology has been used in Hungary, expanding the company’s footprint in Europe and reinforcing its position as a pioneer in cardiac electrophysiology.
Semmelweis University, renowned for its advanced cardiac treatments, is now the latest institution to adopt Imricor’s 3D real-time MRI-guided ablation platform, including the NorthStar mapping system. This technology offers a radiation-free alternative to traditional x-ray fluoroscopy, providing superior imaging clarity and potentially improving procedural outcomes.
Strategic Expansion and Regulatory Momentum
Imricor’s Chair and CEO, Steve Wedan, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion: “We are thrilled to have begun procedures at another world-class institution in Hungary. With our European sales team nearly fully staffed, we anticipate continued growth across the region.” The company is actively pursuing regulatory approvals beyond Europe, including in the United States and Middle East, to broaden the clinical indications for its Vision-MR Ablation Catheter.
The Vision-MR Ablation Catheter, Imricor’s flagship product, has already secured approvals in the European Union, Saudi Arabia, and New Zealand for treating atrial flutter. The company is working to expand these indications and gain further regulatory clearances, which will be critical for scaling adoption globally.
Clinical Trials and Future Prospects
Alongside commercial expansion, Imricor is advancing clinical research, notably the VISABL-VT trial, which aims to demonstrate the benefits of MRI-guided ablation in ventricular tachycardia. The trial’s outcomes could pave the way for broader applications of the technology and reinforce its clinical value proposition.
Imricor’s technology leverages the superior imaging capabilities of MRI to reduce ionising radiation exposure, shorten procedure times, and enhance safety. These advantages align with growing clinical demand for safer, more effective cardiac interventions.
As the company continues to install its systems in leading cardiac centres and build out its sales infrastructure, the Hungarian launch at Semmelweis University represents a key step in establishing a robust European presence.
Bottom Line?
Imricor’s Hungarian debut signals accelerating European adoption of MRI-guided cardiac ablation, setting the stage for broader clinical and commercial advances.
Questions in the middle?
- How quickly will Imricor expand its installed base across other European cardiac centres?
- What impact will the VISABL-VT trial results have on regulatory approvals and market adoption?
- How will Imricor’s technology compete against established x-ray fluoroscopy methods in terms of cost and clinical outcomes?
