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New approach to cardiac ablation

MIAMI – Clinical trials are underway into a new approach to the treatment of atrial fibrillation.

Dr. Jose Osorio, an electrophysiologist with HCA Florida Mercy Hospital, is participating in studies utilizing Pulse Field Ablation or PFA.

Instead of traditional ablation approaches involving extreme heat or cold, PFA uses an electrical current to correct an abnormal heart rhythm.

“It’s a micro-second pulse of electricity is delivered targeting specifically the myocardial tissue, the heart tissue that causes this arrhythmia and this is safer because it does not cause collateral damage, damage to other tissues that the heat or cold could cause,” Osorio said.

He said the technology, which is already being used in Europe, is expected to be widely available in the U.S. soon.

A-Fib, the most common type of heart rhythm disorder, causes a variety of symptoms and increases a person’s risk of stroke.

EFFORTS UNDERWAY TO RESEARCH ‘MAGIC MUSHROOMS’

Researchers in Arizona have submitted a proposal to the FDA to begin clinical trials into the use psilocybin, or ‘magic mushrooms’, to treat mental health issues.

“We hope to launch this clinical trial this year we’ve finally gotten to a point where we’ve submitted our study design to the FDA and they seem to be open to a conversation into how to implement this trial,” said Sue Sisley, principal investigator at the Scottsdale Research Institute.

Currently institute is the only facility licensed in Arizona to grow the mushrooms.


About the Authors
Kristi Krueger headshot

Kristi Krueger has built a solid reputation as an award-winning medical reporter and effervescent anchor. She joined Local 10 in August 1993. After many years co-anchoring the 6 p.m. and 11 p.m., Kristi now co-anchors the noon newscasts, giving her more time in the evening with her family.

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