St. Bernards Medical Center Celebrates Breakthrough in Afib Treatment

St. Bernards Medical Center is proud to announce a significant advancement in the treatment of Atrial Fibrillation (Afib), the most common cardiac arrhythmia affecting millions worldwide. The Medtronic PulseSelect™ Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) System, the first of its kind to receive FDA approval in December 2023, is now providing an innovative solution to treat paroxysmal (intermittent) and persistent Afib.

Unlike traditional ablation therapy, which uses thermal energy (heat or cold) and can sometimes risk damaging surrounding heart structures, the PulseSelect™ PFA system employs pulsed field energy. This technology selectively ablates heart tissue, dramatically reducing the risk of damage to nearby structures. Backed by robust clinical evidence, the PulseSelect™ system has demonstrated its safety, effectiveness, and efficiency in research studies leading to FDA approval.

Dr. Devi Nair, Director of Cardiac Electrophysiology at St. Bernards Medical Center & Arrhythmia Research Group, has taken the lead in further evaluating the real-world performance of PulseSelect™ in producing durable ablation lesions—an essential factor in reducing the likelihood of repeat procedures. Dr. Nair’s study achieved a 98 percent pulmonary vein isolation rate, with 96 percent of patients experiencing complete isolation of all pulmonary veins.

“These findings are highly promising for both physicians and patients,” said Dr. Nair. “Durability is critical in Afib ablation, and PulseSelect has shown remarkable success in ensuring that patients can enjoy long-lasting results. What’s more, most patients are able to go home on the same day as their procedure, enhancing recovery and patient satisfaction.”

Dr. Nair presented these groundbreaking findings on September 28, 2024, at the prestigious Asia Pacific Heart Rhythm Society (APHRS) annual meeting in Sydney, Australia. The presentation, classified as a late-breaking clinical trial, captured the attention of thousands of healthcare providers specializing in heart rhythm disorders.

St. Bernards Medical Center is proud to be at the forefront of this innovative treatment for Afib. For more information on the Afib management and our cardiac electrophysiology care services, please contact our Electrophysiology department at 870-935-6729.