The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine has achieved a significant milestone by performing China's first interventional operation combining a leadless pacemaker with pulsed ablation to treat complex arrhythmia. The patient, a 72-year-old woman, had suffered from sudden blackouts and dizziness due to severe sick sinus syndrome with paroxysmal rapid atrial fibrillation. 

Cardiologist FENG Chao identified the condition, which was challenging to treat due to the uneven heartbeats. XIA Shudong, the department director, opted for a two-step treatment: first, implanting a leadless pacemaker to address cardiac arrest, and then tackling rapid atrial fibrillation. 

On June 5th, 2024，XIA Shudong successfully implanted the pacemaker, which is less invasive and ideal for elderly patients. Post-operation, the patient's cardiac arrest was resolved, but she still experienced rapid atrial tachycardia and atrial fibrillation. 

To address the persistent arrhythmia, XIA Shudong and FENG Chao decided to use Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA), a novel technique. The procedure required precision to minimize impact on the pacemaker, which was in close proximity to the ablation site. FENG Chao emphasized the importance of accuracy and speed in the operation for better patient outcomes. 

On June 28th, with a collaborative effort, FENG Chao conducted the pulsed ablation under local anesthesia. The operation successfully isolated the sources of atrial fibrillation, marking a significant advancement in arrhythmia treatment. 

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