Provided by Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center
Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center (SNVMC) has successfully performed its first atrial fibrillation (AFib) procedure using the Medtronic PulseSelect™ Pulsed Field Ablation System, marking a significant advancement in cardiac care at the hospital.
The procedure was performed by the SNVMC Heart & Vascular Center’s surgical team led by Dr. Joseph Lee, director of electrophysiology. The team completed the procedure on Jan. 26, 2026, despite the challenging winter weather conditions.
Pulsed field ablation is an emerging technology designed to improve safety, increase precision, and enhance efficiency in treating the heart rhythm disorder known as AFib. The procedure is intended to help patients return to healthier, more active lives.
“This milestone reflects the skill and dedication of Dr. Lee and our electrophysiology team, who continue to bring innovative treatment options to our patients,” said Dr. Debra Lee, chief medical officer at SNVMC (no relation to Dr. Joseph Lee).
SNVMC Electrophysiology surgical team.
Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common heart rhythm disorders, affecting millions of people in the United States. The addition of this technology expands advanced cardiac care options available to patients in the community.
“Sharing this news with our community is a wonderful way to kick off February’s American Heart Month,” said SNVMC President Jeff Joyner. “At Sentara, we go beyond treating your heart condition. Our goal is to help you stay healthy and active.”
Learn more about SNVMC’s heart and vascular services online or call the SNVMC Heart and Vascular Center at (703) 523-1980.
About Sentara Health
Sentara Health, an integrated, not-for-profit health care delivery system, celebrates more than 135 years in pursuit of its mission – “We improve health every day.” Sentara is one of the largest health systems in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, and among the top 20 largest not-for-profit integrated health systems in the country, with 34,000 employees, 12 hospitals in Virginia and Northeastern North Carolina, including 10 hospitals with the prestigious Magnet® recognition, and the Sentara Health Plans division which serves more than one million members in Virginia and Florida. Sentara is recognized nationally for clinical quality and safety and is strategically focused on innovation and creating an extraordinary health care experience for our patients and members. Sentara was named a Health Quality Innovator of the Year (2024), and was recognized by Forbes as “America’s Best-In-State Employer” (2024), “Best Employer for Veterans” (2022, 2023), and “Best Employer for Women” (2020).
