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About

Richard J. Schilling is a prominent cardiac electrophysiologist whose research has significantly advanced the field of catheter ablation for cardiac arrhythmias, with a particular focus on atrial fibrillation (AF) and robotic navigation technologies. His work sits at the intersection of interventional electrophysiology and emerging catheter guidance systems, exploring how innovations in both robotics and contact force sensing can improve ablation outcomes. Schilling's most influential contributions center on catheter contact force sensing technology and its role in optimizing radiofrequency ablation lesion quality. His 2014 studies — collectively accumulating nearly 90 citations — rigorously examined how catheter orientation, steerable sheaths, and robotic versus manual navigation affect tissue contact and, consequently, ablation efficacy in the left atrium. His randomized trial comparing robotic to manual AF ablation stands as a landmark contribution to evidence-based electrophysiology practice. Beyond atrial fibrillation, Schilling demonstrated early pioneering work by extending robotic catheter navigation into the left ventricle for ventricular tachycardia, broadening the clinical scope of these technologies. His comprehensive review of commercially available robotic platforms further cements his role as a thought leader synthesizing technical innovation with clinical application. Researchers entering cardiac electrophysiology will find Schilling's body of work an essential foundation for understanding modern ablation methodology.