Irreversible electroporation ablation of cardiac tissue

Irreversible electroporation ablation of cardiac tissue is a non-thermal, energy-based ablation technique utilized in the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. Also known as pulsed field ablation (PFA), it involves the delivery of brief, high-voltage electric pulses to cardiac tissue via catheter-based electrodes. These electric fields cause irreversible permeabilization of the cardiomyocyte cell membrane, creating pores that lead to loss of cellular homeostasis and subsequent cell death, which is exploited for selective ablation of arrhythmogenic myocardial substrates. Unlike thermal techniques (e.g., radiofrequency or cryoablation), PFA can selectively target cardiomyocytes while sparing nearby non-target structures such as connective tissue, nerves, and vasculature. The technology is rapidly emerging as a promising modality for atrial fibrillation and other cardiac arrhythmias, with improved safety and effectiveness profiles, but is not itself a molecular or pharmacological target[1][2][3][4].

Other names

Pulsed field ablationPFAIrreversible electroporation ablationElectroporation cardiac ablation

Induces supraphysiological electric fields that destabilize cell membranes, creating irreversible pores, leading to cell death in targeted tissue (primarily necrosis and apoptosis of myocardium; sparing most connective tissue and some adjacent structures)