UnityPoint Health Trinity Reaches 1,000th Pulsed Field Ablation Procedure

UnityPoint Health® – Trinity Heart Center has reached a significant milestone in heart care with the successful completion of its 1,000th pulsed field ablation (PFA) procedure, an advanced treatment option for atrial fibrillation (AFib.)

The 1,000th PFA was performed in August 2026. Trinity became the first in the Quad Cities to offer PFA in April 2024 and was also among the first in the nation to adopt the technology.

"Reaching 1,000 procedures is much more than a number – it represents 1,000 individuals and families who have trusted us with their care," says Kathy Pulley, director of cardiology services at UnityPoint Health – Trinity Heart Center. "Bringing advanced treatments like pulsed field ablation to the Quad Cities reflects our commitment to providing people with access to the latest proven heart care without leaving the community they call home. This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our physicians, nurses and care teams who work every day to deliver exceptional care and improve lives."

AFib occurs when the top two chambers of the heart beat too fast and with an irregular rhythm which can decrease the heart's pumping efficiency. PFA uses high-energy electrical pulses to ablate the heart tissue causing irregular heart rhythms without using excess heat or cold, which has the potential to damage surrounding tissue.

Michael is one of the 1,000 patients who have benefited from this procedure. For years, AFib made it difficult for Michael to enjoy everyday activities and keep up with the physical demands of his construction job. From lifting heavy materials and pouring concrete, even routine tasks became more challenging. After being evaluated by his care team, Michael was identified as good candidate for pulsed field ablation. He says the procedure has been life-changing.

"I don't worry about my heart the way I used to," says Michael. "I'm getting around much easier, and working construction, that's a big deal. I was even able to come off the heart medication I was taking before procedure. It's given me my life back and helped me look forward to many more years doing the things I love."

"For people living with AFib, pulsed field ablation offers a treatment option that can help them regain confidence and get back to doing the things they enjoy," says Rajiv Mallik, MD, cardiac electrophysiologist at UnityPoint Health – Trinity Heart Center. "One of the greatest advantages of this technology is its ability to precisely target problematic heart tissue while minimizing impact on surrounding structures. This helps more people find lasting relief from AFib symptoms and improve their quality of life."

Dr. Mallik and Mark Shen, MD, cardiac electrophysiologists, both perform the pulsed field ablation procedure at UnityPoint Health – Trinity Heart Center.

Individuals with AFib should discuss pulsed field ablation with their cardiologist or call Trinity Heart Center at (309) 779-5340. Find more information on heart care by visiting unitypoint.org.