Pulsed Field Ablation for Treating AFib

01/17/25 • 37 min

A groundbreaking innovation is making waves for the approximate six million Americans who suffer with atrial fibrillation (AFib). It’s called pulsed field ablation. In our latest podcast episode, host Debra Schindler talks with Dr. Sunjeet Sidhu, a renowned cardiac electrophysiologist at MedStar Health, to explore the intricacies and benefits of this safer, faster, cutting-edge treatment.

The number of those suffering with AFib, may even be an underestimate, but statistics show they are steadily increasing due to factors such as an aging population and the obesity epidemic. Traditionally, AFIB treatment involved thermal ablation methods, which, although effective, posed risks of collateral damage to surrounding tissues. Enter pulsed field ablation, a technique that uses ultra-short electrical pulses to target and destroy abnormal heart tissue without harming nearby structures. This method is not only safer but also more efficient, reducing procedure times significantly.

Dr. Sidhu explains how pulsed field ablation works by creating a scar tissue barrier, effectively isolating the problematic areas of the heart that trigger AFIB. Unlike thermal ablation, which relies on heating or freezing tissues, pulsed field ablation uses electroporation to disrupt cell membranes, leading to cell death and scar formation. The heart cells are particularly sensitive to this type of injury, allowing for precise targeting without affecting surrounding tissues.

The benefits of pulsed field ablation are manifold. Patients experience shorter procedure times, reduced anesthesia exposure, and fewer complications. Dr. Sidhu shares his firsthand experiences, noting a significant improvement in patient outcomes and satisfaction. He recounts a heartwarming story of a young mother who, after undergoing the procedure, was able to regain her quality of life and engage in activities with her children without the debilitating effects of AFIB.

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Stem Cell Transplant & Cellular Immunology

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The MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy Program is the only adult, FACT-accredited program in the Washington, D.C., area. We give patients with cancers affecting the blood or immune system and other disorders access to life-saving treatment options not otherwise available in our region. These include:

· Allogeneic stem cell transplant

· Autologous stem cell transplant

· CAR T-cell therapy

Alaa Ali, MD, MSC, is a clinician, instructor, and investigator in clinical and translational research at MedStar Georgetown’s Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy program. Concurrrently, he holds the position of Assistant Professor at Georgetown University School of Medicine.

For an interview with Dr. Ali, or for more information about this podcast, contact MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Manager Media Relations, [email protected].

Learn more about Dr. Ali.

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

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Scoliosis with Dr. Zan Naseer

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In the latest episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, orthopedic surgeon Zan Nasser, MD, who specializes in spine surgery, discusses the facts and fiction of scoliosis. From understanding the basics of curvature of the spine, to treatment options, patients, parents, and healthcare professionals alike, this podcast has something for everyone.

Contrary to popular belief, scoliosis isn't solely a teenage affliction nor is it caused by poor posture. In fact, scoliosis can develop in individuals of any age, and its severity varies significantly from person to person.

Bracing is often the first line of defense for children with mild to moderate curves, and it plays a crucial role in preventing the curvature from worsening. But when does bracing start, and what happens if treatment isn’t pursued. Dr. Naseer has details the issues surrounding bracing for pediatric patients and for adults... with practical advice for parents on how to manage bracing routines.

Dr. Naseer delves into the more complex aspects of scoliosis management, including surgery.

Listeners will also learn about the importance of early diagnosis and regular monitoring.

With expert insights from Dr. Zan Naseer, listeners are empowered to understand scoliosis better and to navigate its challenges with confidence. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of scoliosis, its management, and how to support those living with it. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that could change lives!

For more information on Dr. Naseer, go to medstarhealth.org/naseer, or to make an appointment, call 410-248-8054.

If you would like to share feedback on this podcast, or suggest a topic for another episode of DocTalk, email Debra Schindler at [email protected].

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.