Piedmont Augusta performs first Pulsed Field Ablation procedure using the Medtronic Affera System

Augusta, Ga. (May 27, 2026) – Piedmont Augusta Hospital has reached a significant milestone in its electrophysiology program with the successful completion of its first combined pulsed field ablation (PFA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) procedure using the Medtronic Affera system.

The Medtronic Affera system is the first U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved technology that allows physicians to select either pulsed field or radiofrequency energy using a single catheter, depending on the abnormal heart rhythm being treated. This advancement expands Piedmont Augusta’s ability to deliver innovative, high-quality cardiac care to patients across the Augusta region.

The procedure was performed by David Clark, M.D. an electrophysiologist at Piedmont Heart at Augusta. “This is an exciting step forward for our electrophysiology program and for the patients we serve,” Clark said. “The ability to map and treat cardiac arrhythmias using a single catheter allows us to be more precise and efficient, which can ultimately improve patient outcomes and reduce procedure time.”

Pulsed field ablation is an emerging treatment for cardiac arrhythmias that uses targeted electrical energy to treat abnormal heart tissue. Unlike traditional approaches, the Affera system enables physicians to both map and treat problematic areas of the heart with the same catheter, reducing the need for multiple catheter exchanges during a procedure.

“This achievement reflects our continued investment in advanced technology and our commitment to providing leading-edge cardiovascular care close to home,” said Dr. Lily Henson, CEO of Piedmont Augusta Hospital. “We are proud of our physicians and care teams for bringing innovative treatment options to our community.”

By streamlining the procedure and enhancing precision, this technology offers meaningful benefits for both patients and care teams.