The North Florida South Georgia Veterans Health System (NF/SGVHS) now offers world-class pulsed field ablation procedures for veterans, using new FARAPULSE technology.
NF/SGVHS completed its first pulsed field ablation procedure on January 2 at the Malcom Randall VA Medical Center using the FARAPULSE pulsed field ablation system. This procedure offers a treatment option for the most common type of arrhythmia, atrial fibrillation (AFib). Using this new technology minimizes the risk of potential complications, ensuring a safer experience for all patients.
“Pulse field ablation is a new way to target areas of unwanted electrical activity in the heart. It uses a powerful electric field to selectively disrupt heart tissue, unlike previous thermal methods using extreme heat or cold modalities. The main benefit is a lower risk of potential damage to adjacent non-cardiac tissues and more complete ablation of target areas,” said Dr. Ramil Goel, NF/SGVHS cardiac electrophysiologist.
“Veterans who suffer from atrial fibrillation can benefit from this advanced ablation technology. This makes it possible to electrically modify the heart tissue safer and faster and achieve a normal rhythm with lower risk and shorter recovery time,” explained Goel.
NF/SGVHS is the first VA medical center in the state and one of the few within the company to implement this new technology as a team effort. Along with Dr. Goel, Dr. Mark Panna, Director of Electrophysiology, has been instrumental in promoting pulse field ablation, ensuring that Veterans receive the most advanced technology available. Amber Dees, nurse supervisor, helped train staff in new techniques associated with pulse field ablation. Dees has also played a key role in facilitating the smooth rollout and deployment of this innovative technology.
Their collaborative effort not only improved the quality of care provided to Veterans, but also set a precedent for future advancements in medical technology at our institution. Together, they have created a foundation of excellence that will continue to benefit veterans for years to come.
For more information about the Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, please visit https://www.va.gov/north-florida-health-care/locations/malcom-randall-department-of-veterans-affairs-medical-center/.