Irreversible intracardiac defibrillator circuit damage induced by pulsed-field ablation: Mechanistic insights

HeartRhythm Case Reports 2026 Open access

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Authors: Kenta Takahashi, Taishi Kuwahara, Toshio Makita, Yurie Arisuda, Kenta Kadono, T Oshio
DOI: 10.1016/j.hrcr.2025.12.012
Cited by: 3
References: 6

Abstract

Pulsed-field ablation (PFA) is a non-thermal modality that induces cardiomyocyte death via irreversible electroporation, achieving effective pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) while sparing surrounding tissues.1-2 Although PFA is generally considered safe in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs),3-5 its strong electric fields may interfere with device function, potentially causing circuit damage or inappropriate responses.6 Recently, irreversible internal damage to an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) was reported when PFA was delivered directly to the superior vena cava (SVC) coil of the ICD lead.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Microbial Inactivation Methods Cardiac Arrhythmias and Treatments Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine

Publication details

Journal / source
HeartRhythm Case Reports
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Volume
12
Issue
3
Pages
344–349
Publication date
8 January 2026
Language
EN