UnityPoint Health – Trinity announced it has become the first hospital in the Quad Cities to successfully perform a procedure that combines two advanced treatments for atrial fibrillation (AFib) into a single, innovative approach.
According to a news release, the procedure pairs pulsed field ablation (PFA) with the WATCHMAN device, offering patients a streamlined approach for both heart rhythm control and stroke prevention. Dr. Mark Shen, Cardiovascular Medicine, PLLC, performed the first such procedure at Trinity Heart Center, Rock Island, in April.
“This is a promising new approach to treating AFib and reducing stroke risk – all in one minimally invasive procedure,” Dr. Shen said in the release. “This dual procedure shortens recovery time and enhances long-term outcomes – redefining what’s possible in comprehensive AFib management.”
AFib, which can lead to stroke if untreated, causes the top two chambers of the heart to beat too fast and with an irregular rhythm, decreasing pumping efficiency. Symptoms may include fatigue, heart palpitations, trouble breathing and dizziness.
Jack Evans of Donahue, Iowa, who is one of the first patients to receive the combined procedure, described it as life-changing. “I feel like a different person – I feel great,” Mr. Evans said in the release. “I love to play golf, and before the procedure, I could barely finish a round on an indoor simulator. Now, I’m back on the course, playing all 18 holes with ease.”
About WATCHMAN
Trinity also was the first hospital in the region to offer WATCHMAN, beginning in 2020.
The WATCHMAN device is a proven alternative to long-term blood thinners for individuals with AFib not caused by a heart valve issue. It seals off a small area of the heart where clots often form, helping to lower stroke risk.
Pulsed field ablation uses high-energy electrical pulses to ablate heart tissue causing irregular rhythms without using excess heat or cold, which has the potential to damage surrounding tissue.
“This innovative approach marks a new chapter in AFib care,” said Kathy Pulley, director of cardiology services at UnityPoint Health – Trinity. “We’re proud to lead the way in bringing advanced, patient-centered heart treatments to the Quad Cities – improving outcomes and expanding access to the region’s most comprehensive heart care.”
Patients with AFib are encouraged to discuss the procedure with their cardiologist or call Trinity Heart Center at (309) 779-5340. More heart care information is available on the UnityPoint Health – Trinity website.
