State-of-the-art pulsed field ablation for cardiac arrhythmias: ongoing evolution and future perspective

Europace. 2024 Jun 3;26(6):euae134. doi: 10.1093/europace/euae134.

Abstract

Pulsed field ablation (PFA) is an innovative approach in the field of cardiac electrophysiology aimed at treating cardiac arrhythmias. Unlike traditional catheter ablation energies, which use radiofrequency or cryothermal energy to create lesions in the heart, PFA utilizes pulsed electric fields to induce irreversible electroporation, leading to targeted tissue destruction. This state-of-the-art review summarizes biophysical principles and clinical applications of PFA, highlighting its potential advantages over conventional ablation methods. Clinical data of contemporary PFA devices are discussed, which combine predictable procedural outcomes and a reduced risk of thermal collateral damage. Overall, these technological developments have propelled the rapid evolution of contemporary PFA catheters, with future advancements potentially impacting patient care.

Keywords: Catheter ablation; Electroporation; Energy sources; Pulsed field.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Ablation Techniques / trends
  • Animals
  • Arrhythmias, Cardiac* / diagnosis
  • Arrhythmias, Cardiac* / physiopathology
  • Arrhythmias, Cardiac* / surgery
  • Arrhythmias, Cardiac* / therapy
  • Cardiac Catheters
  • Catheter Ablation / methods
  • Catheter Ablation / trends
  • Electroporation / methods
  • Electroporation / trends
  • Forecasting
  • Humans
  • Treatment Outcome