Pulsed field ablation (PFA) is a medical procedure used to treat certain types of arrhythmias, particularly atrial fibrillation. It involves delivering short bursts (or pulses) of high-voltage electric fields to heart tissue, with the goal of creating localized lesions that disrupt the abnormal electrical signals causing the arrhythmia.

The technique works by applying rapid, high-voltage electrical pulses to the heart muscle, typically through catheters placed inside the heart. These pulses generate electric fields that cause the cell membranes to break down, leading to controlled cellular death (necrosis) in the targeted tissue. The damaged tissue no longer conducts the abnormal electrical signals, effectively isolating the abnormal electrical pathways and restoring normal rhythm.

PFA is often considered a less invasive and potentially safer alternative to traditional radiofrequency ablation, which uses heat to destroy tissue. One of the benefits of PFA is that it is thought to cause less thermal damage, reducing the risk of collateral damage to surrounding structures such as blood vessels and nerves. Additionally, PFA may have a shorter procedure time compared to other methods.

While the technique is promising and shows strong potential in the management of arrhythmias, further studies and clinical experience are still necessary to fully establish its long-term effectiveness and safety.