New Technology Used by Penn State Hospitals to Combat AFib

Three Penn State Health hospitals in Pennsylvania are now offering patients new technology for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AFib), the most common type of heart arrhythmia. The FARAPULSE Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) System, which uses a catheter to target tissue associated with abnormal heart rhythms by administering rapid electrical impulses, is being used at Penn State Health’s Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Holy Spirit Medical Center and St. Joseph Medical Center.

This new therapy differs from current ablation therapies, as it eliminates affected heart tissue using electrical impulses rather than extreme heat or cold. This minimizes damage to adjacent structures, such as the esophagus and nearby nerves, allowing patients to undergo a faster and safer procedure. AFib occurs when the upper chambers of the heart beat too rapidly and with an irregular rhythm, impairing the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently and increasing the risk of stroke.

In addition to the PFA technology, the three hospitals still offer radiofrequency and cryoablation procedures. Dr. Steven Ettinger, vice president and physician leader of Cardiovascular Services at Penn State Health, emphasized the significance of introducing pulsed field ablation in central Pennsylvania for individuals dealing with AFib. With this cutting-edge equipment in the hands of skilled cardiovascular specialists, patients can access advanced treatments for their condition.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized the widespread use of the PFA technology in patients after a randomized clinical trial demonstrated its efficacy and safety compared to standard ablation techniques. As a result, patients can discontinue medications prescribed for AFib. AFib affects nearly two percent of the global population and more than six million Americans.