Pulsed Field Ablation
Also written as: PFA — Pulsed Field Ablation
A novel ablation technique using brief, high-voltage electrical pulses to create irreversible electroporation of cardiac tissue. Offers tissue-selective ablation properties.
Full Definition
Pulsed field ablation (PFA) represents a revolutionary advancement in catheter ablation technology that utilizes microsecond-duration, high-voltage electrical pulses to achieve irreversible electroporation of target tissues. Unlike thermal ablation methods, PFA selectively targets cardiac myocytes while preserving adjacent structures such as the esophagus, phrenic nerve, and pulmonary veins. The technique creates transmembrane pores that lead to controlled cell death without thermal injury. PFA has shown particular promise for pulmonary vein isolation in atrial fibrillation treatment, offering potentially safer and more durable lesions. The technology requires specialized catheters and generators designed to deliver precise electrical field distributions.
Usage
Usage note: Emerging technology that represents a paradigm shift from thermal ablation methods. Often abbreviated as PFA.
In Context
- "Pulsed field ablation achieved complete pulmonary vein isolation without esophageal injury." — clinical trial report
- "The PFA catheter delivered targeted electroporation to the anterior left atrial wall." — procedure note