Trinity Becomes First Quad City Hospital to Combine AFib Treatments in One Procedure

UnityPoint Health – Trinity is proud to be the first in the Quad Cities to successfully perform a procedure that combines two advanced treatments for atrial fibrillation (AFib) into a single, innovative approach.

By pairing the cutting-edge pulsed field ablation (PFA) with the proven stroke protection of the WATCHMAN device, patients can now benefit from a streamlined approach that targets both heart rhythm control and stroke prevention. The first procedure was performed by Mark Shen, MD, Cardiovascular Medicine, PLLC, at Trinity Heart Center in April 2025.

“This is a promising new approach to treating AFib and reducing stroke risk – all in one minimally invasive procedure,” says Dr. Shen. “This dual procedure shortens recovery time and enhances long-term outcomes – redefining what’s possible in comprehensive AFib management.”

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. Symptoms may include fatigue, heart palpitations, trouble breathing and dizziness. Untreated AFib can lead to a stroke.

Jack Evans, of Donahue, Iowa, is among the first to receive this procedure and says it’s been a life-changing experience.

“I feel like a different person – I feel great,” says Evans. “I love to play golf, and before the procedure, I could barely finish a round on an indoor simulator. Now, I’m back on the course, playing all 18 holes with ease. I can mow the lawn and do yard work again – without needing breaks or feeling out of breath.”

The WATCHMAN device is a proven alternative to long-term blood thinners for people with AFib not caused by a heart valve issue. It works by sealing off a small area of the heart where clots often form, helping lower stroke risk. Trinity was the first hospital to offer WATCHMAN, starting in 2020.

Pulsed field ablation 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.

“This innovative approach marks a new chapter in AFib care,” says Kathy Pulley, director of cardiology services at UnityPoint Health – Trinity. “We’re proud to lead the way in bringing
advanced, patient-centered heart treatments to the Quad Cities – improving outcomes and expanding access to the region’s most comprehensive heart care.”

Patients with AFib should discuss this procedure with their cardiologist or call Trinity Heart Center.