LGT leads UK in heart treatment innovation with new technology
Our Trust is proud to be among the first centres in the UK to adopt Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA), a revolutionary technology transforming the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). This innovative, safer, and quicker procedure offers new hope to patients at LGT living with this common heart rhythm disorder.
What is Pulsed Field Ablation?
Dr William Eysenck, Consultant Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist, explains: “Unlike traditional methods that use heat or cold, PFA employs high-voltage electrical pulses to precisely target and destroy faulty heart tissue. This non-thermal approach reduces the risk of damaging nearby structures, making the procedure safer and faster.”
Why does this matter?
Traditional thermal ablation procedures often take longer and pose risks such as oesophageal damage or pulmonary vein narrowing. In contrast, PFA (Pulsed Field Ablation) creates precise lesions more quickly and with fewer complications. Currently, only a select number of UK centres are utilising this cutting-edge technology, including the Royal Brompton, where these procedures are performed. Our strong partnership with the Royal Brompton highlights our shared commitment to advancing cardiac care, positioning LGT at the forefront of cardiac innovation.
What does this mean for patients?
Patients at LGT now have access to a safer, more efficient treatment that cuts procedure times in half and reduces waiting lists. Dr Eysenck shares: “We’ve already successfully treated three patients with this new method, and more are planned. Faster procedures mean earlier intervention, which improves outcomes and quality of life.”
Looking to the future
Dr Eysenck envisions that PFA will increase treatment capacity, shorten waiting times, and enhance patient recovery. “This technology represents a significant step forward in delivering safer, more effective care for atrial fibrillation patients,” he says.
Making a difference today
Patients at LGT are already benefiting from this breakthrough. As Dr Eysenck concludes: “The Varipulse catheter allows us to perform pulmonary vein isolation quickly, safely, and efficiently, a real advance for those living with AF.”
Congratulations to Dr Eysenck and the many colleagues involved in this fantastic, forward-looking development for our communities.
