Imricor (IMR: $0.29) is seeking to introduce a new standard-of-care in cardiac ablation procedures. That involves using MRI rather than x-ray to guide the procedures which arguably provides better real-time, functional information on how best to correct irregular heart function.

Imricor Medical Systems (IMR: $0.275) achieved consumable revenue of just US$115,000 for the quarter, down 15% on the previous corresponding period. However, it has increased the number of active sites by three to nine sites.

Imricor Medical Systems (IMR: $0.29) is pioneering MRI-guided cardiac ablation, rather than ablation procedures conducted using x-ray fluoroscopy imaging. It is the only company in the world that sells MRI-compatible consumable devices used for cardiac ablation.

Cardiac ablation is a minimally invasive procedure whereby electrical abnormalities in the heart, which cause abnormal heart rhythms, are corrected by heating or freezing cardiac tissue inside the heart via a catheter. The issue with using x-ray to help guide the procedures is that the heart is almost invisible to x-rays.

Imricor Medical Systems (IMR: $0.115) listed on the ASX in 2019 at $0.83 per share raising $13 million. The company was formed in 2006 in the US and is pioneering cardiac ablation treated specifically through the guidance of MRI. Traditional ablation procedures are conducted using fluoroscopy and x-ray imaging.

There are multiple advantages in using MRI to help guide the procedure, most notably the better imaging quality that can be achieved compared to x-ray. This results in arguably better ablation outcomes, less repeat procedures and shorter treatment periods. Efficacy of the ablation procedures involves inserting an ablation catheter through the veins or arteries to correct irregular electrical signals in the heart. Other safety benefits for patients and surgeons come from not using x-ray images.