Pulsed Field Ablation
Advanced Care for AFib and Other Heart Rhythm Disorders
MetroWest Medical Center offers procedures to directly target the cells that cause electrical misfires within the heart muscle. These techniques are designed to help patients reduce the need for medications and the corresponding side effects.
Pulsed field ablation (PFA) is one of the techniques that can benefit AFib patients.
What is pulsed field ablation?
Pulsed field ablation is a technique used to treat atrial fibrillation. The procedure usually takes less than an hour to complete and is minimally invasive. It is different from other ablation technologies, which either rely on heat (radiofrequency) or cold (cryoablation) to destroy misfiring heart cells. Instead, PFA uses short, high-amplitude pulses of energy to deactivate the problem cells. Pulsed field ablation selectively targets heart tissue responsible for electrical misfires without damaging nearby structures, making it a potentially safer and more precise alternative for treating irregular heart rhythms.
How does a PFA procedure work?
With PFA, a doctor inserts a catheter through a vein – typically in the groin – and guides it to the heart using imaging. Electrodes on the catheter send electrical impulses to identify abnormal heart tissue causing AFib. High-voltage electrical pulses are then delivered to create tiny pores in the targeted tissue, destroying problematic tissue. The procedure and recovery include monitoring, with most patients going home the same day or staying overnight, depending on their condition.
Who qualifies for pulsed field ablation?
Pulsed field ablation is primarily used to treat patients with symptoms that have not responded to medication, who experience intermittent or persistent episodes of AFib without significant risk factors for recurrence. PFA may also be an option for individuals with tachycardiomyopathy or those who cannot tolerate beta-blocker medications.
Because PFA is a catheter-based procedure, patients seeking minimally invasive options can benefit from this treatment. Talk with a cardiologist to see if you are a candidate for this advanced therapy.
If you or a loved one suffer from atrial fibrillation and are seeking a minimally invasive treatment option, schedule a consultation with our electrophysiology team today. We are here to help you find relief from AFib and improve your heart health.