UnityPoint Health – Trinity celebrated its 250th person to successfully receive a pulsed field ablation (PFA) procedure – marking a significant milestone in the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AFib) in the Quad Cities.
The 250th pulsed field ablation procedure was performed earlier in December by Dr. Helbert Acosta. The procedure was first offered by UnityPoint Health – Trinity in April, the hospital said in a news release. UnityPoint Health is the only Quad Cities provider of this innovative treatment system for AFib and was among the first in the country to use it.
“This milestone underscores UnityPoint Health’s commitment to bringing leading-edge heart
care to the Quad Cities,” Kathy Pulley, director of cardiology services at UnityPoint Health – Trinity Heart Center, said in the release. “We are proud to offer this advanced technology and to improve outcomes for AFib patients who now have a new, effective treatment option close to home.”
PFA uses high-energy electrical pulses to ablate the heart tissue causing irregular heart rhythms without using excess heat or cold, which has the potential to damage surrounding tissue.
James Miller, 40, of Prophetstown, Illinois, is among the 250 QC area patients to undergo the procedure. Mr. Miller suffered from irregular heart rhythm for years, making simple tasks such as carrying in the groceries difficult.
Mr. Miller learned from his cardiologist that he would be a good candidate for PFA. Four months later, Mr. Miller says he’s feeling great and looking forward to living life to the fullest.
“I was able to start golfing again, but most importantly, be more active and present with my family,” Mr. Miller said in the release. “There was also an incredible sense of relief not having to check my heart rate constantly. I can enjoy life.”
“For individuals with AFib, this treatment option opens up new possibilities for symptom relief and a higher quality of life,” said Dr. Acosta. “We’re empowering those with AFib with an advanced treatment option that provides targeted care and peace of mind.”
AFib occurs when the top two chambers of the heart beat too fast and with an irregular rhythm which can decrease the heart’s pumping efficiency. Symptoms may include fatigue, heart palpitations, trouble breathing and dizziness. With PFA, patients have a promising new option that may alleviate symptoms and enhance their quality of life, UnityPoint said.
Individuals with AFib should discuss pulsed field ablation with their cardiologist or call Trinity Heart Center at (309) 779-5340. Find more information on heart care, visit unitypoint.org.
