Atrial fibrillation: Trias i Pujol presents a new technique with high-energy pulses
Trias i Pujol Hospital presents an innovative technique that is simpler and more effective than traditional surgeries
Trias i Pujol German University Hospital in Barcelona takes a decisive step forward in the fight against atrial fibrillation, the world’s most common cardiac arrhythmia. For the first time in Catalonia, Can Ruti cardiologists have adopted an innovative technique that stands out for its simplicity, effectiveness, and safety compared to traditional surgical procedures.
A revolutionary technique
The technique used until now consisted of using radiofrequency or cryoablation to burn or freeze the heart cells involved in arrhythmias. The risk was to affect other nearby structures, such as the pericardium, esophagus, lung or phrenic nerve, which are “susceptible” to being damaged by thermal energy. Instead, the revolutionary new technique is to employ high-energy pulses that destroy the affected tissues without generating inflammation. In addition to this they minimize postoperative pain and minimize the risk of damaging nearby structures.
Simpler and faster surgery with immediate recovery
The simplicity of this procedure allows it to be performed on an outpatient basis, without the need for hospitalization. “Patients can go home the same day,” Bisbal emphasizes. “This allows us to increase the number of daily procedures, helping more patients and reducing waiting lists,” explains Dr. Felipe Bisbal, Can Ruti cardiologist.
Encouraging results and a bright future
This innovation represents a new chapter in the history of treatment for atrial fibrillation, which affects about 1 percent of the population over age 60 and can reach 10 percent in those over age 75. In recent weeks, Can Ruti has already successfully performed a dozen surgeries with this innovative technique. These include one on a 71-year-old woman with atrial fibrillation and other heart conditions. Despite complications related to her condition, the surgery lasted less than an hour, demonstrating the effectiveness and speed of the method.
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