Phoebe is using new technology to treat patients with irregular heart rhythms – care that is faster than previous treatments and significantly lowers the risk of complications.  Phoebe Electrophysiologist Dr. James Coman recently performed Phoebe’s first pulsed field ablation (PFA), a procedure that uses short electrical pulses to treat cardiac arrhythmias 

Ablations are common and safe procedures that generally provide immediate and permanent relief for patients with various abnormal heart rhythms.  Typically, ablations involve using heat or cold to isolate and eliminae specific areas of heart tissue that are causing an abnormal rhythm.

“Complications from ablations are exceedingly rare, but collateral damage to surrounding tissue is possible.  PFA allows us to be more precise, eliminating the possibility of damage to other heart tissue, coronary arteries or the esophagus,” Dr. Coman said.  “PFA is also highly efficient.  When we reduce the length of time a patient is under anesthesia, we reduce the potential for complications.”

Moving forward, Dr. Coman will exclusively use PFA to treat his patients who need ablations for atrial fibrillation.  

“The PulseSelect PFA System we are using has an exceptional safety record backed by years of research.  Phoebe’s investment in this system is one more example of our commitment to focus on patient safety as we enhance and expand the advanced services we provide the people of southwest Georgia,” Dr. Coman said.

Patients dealing with heart arrythmias who may benefit from ablation or other treatment should seek a referral to Phoebe Electrophysiology from their primary care physician or cardiologist.