Advancements in ablation procedure improve treatment for cardiology patients
Pulsed-field ablation is the latest tool used by Salem Hospital cardiac electrophysiologists to provide safe and effective treatment.
Cardiac electrophysiologist Ashit Patel, MD, says this method of ablation surgery uses short, high-voltage electrical pulses to destabilize certain cardiac cells while sparing nearby tissues to help the heart resume a normal rhythm.
“The energy delivery to target these cells is faster and safer than other existing methods,” said Dr. Patel.
Rod Stanton runs the data center for Salem Hospital’s Information Services department.
He was one of the first patients to receive pulsed-field ablation to restore his heart’s rhythm.
Finding answers for patients
Stanton first developed an irregular heartbeat, or atrial fibrillation (AFib), three years ago during abdominal reconstruction surgery at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland.
“My heart started beating erratically,” he said. “I went to my general provider and then got referred to Salem Health’s cardiology clinic. I did medication, no change. Then, I did two conversions, which is a shock to the heart to get it into a rhythm. Those were about a year apart, and both failed.”
At that point, Stanton was referred to Dr. Patel, who recommended PFA, which took place in early April.
Success after PFA
Stanton’s procedure was a success.
“He has remained off rhythm-control medications and is feeling better, and his quality of life has improved,” said Dr. Patel. “He was able to be treated and discharged within a few hours after his procedure without many postoperative symptoms.”
68-year-old Stanton said he’s no longer out of breath and is starting to exercise again.
“You don’t have the same quality of life with an AFib,” said Stanton. “You’re always worried about what you’re doing to makes sure you don’t hurt yourself. It’s a big relief.”
Now, Stanton says he’s able to be more present for his family.
“I worried for three years, my family was worried, grandchildren, all of them worried I wasn’t going to be around, or something was going to happen,” he said.
After going through the procedure, Stanton said he would recommend it to others.
“Dr. Patel was very straightforward,” he said. “He tells you what’s going on and describes the process for you. He answers your questions in a way you can understand. I had a very good experience.”