Electroporation for Atrial Fibrillation: Safer, Faster Treatment

Corsica’s Bastia Hospital Pioneers electroporation for Atrial Fibrillation Treatment

A groundbreaking new technique for treating atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder, is now available in Corsica for the frist time, thanks to the Bastia Hospital Center. The hospital has been steadily building its expertise in interventional rhythmology, and the introduction of electroporation marks a significant step forward in cardiac care for the region.

Since 2024, the Bastia Hospital center has been focused on strengthening its capabilities in this specialized field. This effort is being spearheaded by Dr. Philippe Riccini of the cardiology department,and Dr. Philippe Lanfranchi, who divides his practice between the Saint Georges Clinic in Nice and the Bastia Hospital.

Did you know?-Atrial fibrillation affects over 2% of people aged 50-80, increasing to over 30% for those over 80. It’s a growing health concern, especially with an aging population.

Electroporation: A First for Corsican Cardiology

Beginning in August 2025, the Bastia hospital will offer electroporation, an innovative ablation technique already in use on the European mainland for a year and a half. This represents a major advancement for patients who previously had to travel for specialized treatment.

Unlike conventional ablation methods that rely on extreme temperatures – either heat or cold – to eliminate problematic heart tissue, electroporation utilizes brief, targeted electrical pulses. According to hospital officials, this precision allows for the selective targeting of tissues responsible for the arrhythmia while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy structures. This refined approach is expected to reduce the risk of complications and enhance patient safety.

Pro tip:-Electroporation halves procedure times compared to traditional ablation, allowing the Bastia Hospital Center to double the number of interventions performed.

Benefits for Patients and the Hospital System

The implementation of electroporation offers a range of benefits, both for individual patients and the hospital’s operational capacity. One key advantage is a significant reduction in procedure time – operating times are now halved. This efficiency allows the bastia Hospital Center to double the number of interventions performed, thanks to the dedication of the entire operating room team.

The technology also expands treatment options for vulnerable patients. “Electroporation allows us to better care for elderly or fragile patients,” a senior official stated, “for whom traditional techniques may present unacceptable risks.”

Moreover, the increased capacity for on-site treatment reduces the need for corsican patients to travel to the mainland for specialized cardiac care, improving access and convenience.

Reader question:-Have you or a loved one been affected by atrial fibrillation? Share your thoughts on improving access to specialized cardiac care.

Understanding Atrial Fibrillation: A Growing Concern

Atrial fibrillation is the moast prevalent type of heart arrhythmia globally, characterized by a rapid and irregular heartbeat. The condition affects more than 2% of the general population aged 50 to 80, and that number rises dramatically to over 30% for individuals over 80, with a higher incidence observed in men.

Despite frequently enough being perceived as a relatively benign condition, atrial fibrillation can lead to serious complications, including heart failure and stroke, which represent the most significant risks associated with the disorder.

A Positive Trajectory for Corsican Cardiac Care

The introduction of electroporation at the Bastia Hospital Center signifies a ample leap forward in the management of arrhythmias in Corsica. It underscores the institution’s commitment to continuous modernization and its dedication to providing residents of the island with access to state-of-the-art cardiac care techniques. This advancement s