Pulsed Field Ablation: New, Cutting-Edge Ablation Technology for AFib Treatment

Written by Peter Gallagher, MD

Farawave Pulsed Field
Ablation Catheter - Guidewire

Treatment for Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) often times includes ablation of the heart tissue that is causing abnormal electrical signals within the heart which result in the development of irregular heartbeats.  Historically there have been two different types of ablation techniques – radiofrequency and cryoablation to destroy the heart tissue.  However, a new technology and technique has recently emerged – pulsed field ablation.  This new technology involves a state-of-the-art catheter that ablates the various areas of the pulmonary vein using short pulses of energy directly to the AFib sites.  Pulsed field ablation uses tissue-selective, non-thermal electric fields to ablate heart tissue and avoid damage to surrounding areas of the heart.  

Farawave Pulsed Field
Ablation Catheter - Basket

This new technology has been proven to deliver as safe and effective results as the more traditional thermal (radiofrequency and cryoablation) applications without causing additional damage to surrounding areas of heart tissue.  The shape of the pulsed field ablation catheter and delivery method of the energy drastically shortens the procedural time for the patient, meaning less anesthesia is needed and patients have a quicker recovery. 

In May, we became the first team to perform pulsed field ablation in Lincoln and since that time have treated a vast amount of AFib patients utilizing this technology with extremely positive outcomes. Bryan Heart electrophysiologists and Bryan Medical Center are one of only two programs in the region that perform this procedure. 

With the incidence of AFib on the rise, pulsed field ablation allows Bryan Heart electrophysiologists another effective and efficient therapy to treat more patients, reduce complications and positively impact the quality of life for our patients and their families.

For more information or to refer an AFib patient, please contact our office at 402-483-3333.