UnityPoint Health – Trinity successfully completed its 850th pulsed field ablation (PFA) procedure, marking a significant milestone in the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AFib) in the Quad Cities, the hospital announced.
The 850th procedure was performed in February by Dr. Helbert Acosta of Cardiovascular Medicine, PLLC.
UnityPoint Health – Trinity was an early adopter of the innovative AFib treatment, beginning to offer PFA in April 2024 and becoming the first in the Quad Cities to do so, according to a news release.
“This is a meaningful milestone for our team and the patients we serve,” said Kathy Pulley, director of cardiology services at UnityPoint Health – Trinity Heart Center. “Being able to offer this advanced treatment locally means patients can receive high-quality AFib care without traveling far from home.”
PFA uses high-energy electrical pulses to ablate, or destroy, the heart tissue causing irregular heart rhythms. Unlike traditional ablation methods, PFA does not use excess heat or cold, which has the potential to damage surrounding tissue.
AFib is a condition where 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.
“When your heart rhythm is off, it can impact everything from your energy level to your peace of mind,” Dr. Acosta said. “Pulsed field ablation gives us another way to treat irregular heart rhythms more precisely, with the goal of helping patients feel better, regain energy and get back to doing the things they enjoy.”
Individuals with AFib who want to discuss PFA should consult with their cardiologist or call the Trinity Heart Center at (309) 779-5340. For more information on heart care, visit unitypoint.org.
