Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia, impacting hundreds of thousands of Americans. It can significantly increase a person’s risk of stroke, heart failure and death.
While traditional catheter ablation techniques like radiofrequency and cryoablation have long been used to manage AFib, a new technology — Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) — is emerging as a game-changer in the field of cardiac electrophysiology.
What Is Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA)?
PFA is a non-thermal ablation technique that uses short, high-voltage electrical pulses to create irreversible electroporation in cardiac cells. This process forms microscopic pores in the cell membranes, leading to cell death without the heat-related damage associated with traditional ablation methods.
Unlike RF or cryoablation, which rely on heat or cold to destroy tissue, PFA allows FirstHealth’s electrophysiology team to target myocardial cells while sparing nearby structures like the esophagus, phrenic nerve and pulmonary veins.
This minimally invasive procedure requires only a short hospital stay and the precision of the PFA approach significantly reduces the risk of complications.
“With pulsed field ablation, we’re able to offer our patients a safer, gentler way to treat atrial fibrillation,” said Brandon Hubbs, MSN, R.N., CCRN, director of FirstHealth’s Cardiac Services department. “It’s not just about technology — it’s about helping people get back to living their lives with fewer risks and faster recovery. That’s what truly matters.”
FirstHealth began offering PFA procedures in March 2025 following FDA approval of Boston Scientific’s FARAPULSE PFA system.
Warning Signs and Symptoms of AFib
Many symptoms of AFib may be similar to other heart-related issues, including coronary artery disease and heart attack. If you suspect that you are having a heart attack, especially if you have chest pain or pressure, call 911 right away.
Otherwise, if you have symptoms of AFib, it’s important to speak with your primary care provider or cardiologist. Symptoms may include the following:
- Palpitations – the heart may feel like it’s racing, fluttering, pounding, thumping or beating irregularly
- Chest pain, pressure or discomfort
- Dizziness, light-headedness or faintness
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue or lack of energy (in general or while exercising)
- Weakness
- Sweating
- Anxiety
- Confusion
The Future of AFib Ablation Using PFA
Additional innovation continues to change how providers can use PFA to help patients. Hubbs said PFA is poised to become the first-line ablation strategy for many patients with AFib.
“This approach is safer, faster and in many cases more effective than traditional ablation,” he said. “FirstHealth is committed to being at the cutting edge of heart care, offering our patients access to world-class treatment close to home.”
Heart Care at FirstHealth
At FirstHealth Reid Heart Center, and in our clinics throughout the region, we offer personalized care from the area’s most skilled cardiologists, surgeons, nurses, techs and support personnel.
In our state-of-the-art Reid Heart Center on the campus of FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital, patients have access to leading-edge technology, treatment options and services usually reserved for university-based centers in large cities.
