Pulsed Field Ablation

FARAPULSE™ selectively targets heart tissue responsible for the heart cell misfires using short, high-amplitude pulses of energy – over traditional thermal methods. This approach helps to reduce the risk of adverse events, such as harm to surrounding tissues and organs.

During a procedure, 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 to destroy problematic tissue. The procedure and recovery includes monitoring, with most patients going home the same day or staying overnight, depending on their condition. 

Pulsed field ablation is primarily used to treat patients with symptoms that have not responded to medication, 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. Consulting with a cardiologist is the best way to determine if you are a candidate for this advanced therapy. 

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.