Sejong Chungnam National University Hospital reaches 100 PFA ablation cases

Sejong Chungnam National University Hospital has reached a milestone by completing 100 cases of 3D imaging-guided Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. This achievement marks the first time such a volume has been reached in the Chungcheong region.

Unlike traditional radiofrequency or cryoballoon ablation methods that rely on thermal or cooling energy, PFA is a non-thermal treatment. It utilizes high-voltage electric fields for very short durations to induce irreversible electroporation in myocardial cells. This method is noted for its ability to selectively target heart cells, thereby reducing the risk of damage to surrounding tissues such as the esophagus or pulmonary veins. Additionally, the rapid energy delivery helps shorten overall procedure times.

Professors Kim Tae-seok and Kim Min-su of the cardiology arrhythmia team noted that the integration of 3D imaging allows for real-time monitoring of cardiac anatomy and catheter positioning. They stated that this milestone demonstrates the hospital's capability to provide advanced arrhythmia treatments locally, reducing the need for patients in the region to travel to the Seoul metropolitan area.