Pulsed Field Ablation
Pulsed Field Ablation is an effective, safer, and new alternative to treat atrial fibrillation (AF or AFib).
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What is Pulsed Field Ablation?
Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) is a new, minimally invasive procedure performed in the catheterization lab used to treat atrial fibrillation (AFib)—a common heart rhythm problem where the heart beats irregularly and too fast. Instead of using heat (radiofrequency) or cold (cryoablation) to destroy problematic heart tissue causing AFib, PFA uses short, high-energy electrical pulses to selectively target and disable the faulty heart cells causing AFib.
Why Choose Pulsed Field Ablation?
Traditional ablation procedures use extreme heat or cold to destroy heart tissue responsible for abnormal rhythms. While effective, these methods carry risks of collateral damage to surrounding structures.
PFA is different. It uses precise, non-thermal electrical fields to selectively target heart tissue while minimizing risks associated with conventional ablation.
Preparation
- The patient is given anesthesia or sedation to ensure comfort.
- A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel in the groin and guided up to the heart.
Targeting the Problem Area
- Once in place, the catheter delivers precise electrical pulses to the heart tissue that is causing the irregular rhythm.
- These pulses create tiny, controlled changes in the cells without damaging surrounding healthy tissue.
Restoring Normal Heart Rhythm
- The ablated (treated) area(s) help prevent the faulty electrical signals from causing AFib.
- The catheter is then removed, and the small incision in the groin is closed.
Benefits of Pulse Field Ablation
- Minimally Invasive – No open-heart surgery, only a small puncture in the groin.
- Faster & Safer – More precise than traditional methods, reducing risks of damage to surrounding tissues.
- Shorter Recovery Time – Many patients go home the same day or after an overnight stay.
- Lower Risk of Complications – Less chance of harming nearby structures like the esophagus or nerves.
- Highly Effective for AFib – Helps restore a normal heart rhythm and improves quality of life.
Take Control of Your Heart Health
Talk to your cardiologist to see if PFA is right for you. If you don’t have a cardiologist, we can help. Call Garnet Health Doctors - Middletown at 845-333-7575 or Garnet Health Doctors - Harris at 845-333-8909.
Or use the "Find a Cardiologist" button above to schedule an appointment today.
Your heart deserves the best care—discover the next generation of AFib treatment at Garnet Health!