Press Release
Ellis among first in region to adopt innovative heart rhythm tech
Thursday, June 5, 2025
Cardiology team performs first Farapulse Pulsed Field Ablation procedure at Ellis
SCHENECTADY, N.Y. – Ellis Medicine has successfully completed its first cardiac ablation procedure using the Farapulse Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) System, an advanced technology that represents a new frontier in the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AFib). This milestone positions Ellis as an early adopter of this groundbreaking approach in the Capital Region.
The procedure was performed by Steven Giovannone, M.D., F.A.C.C., a board-certified electrophysiologist and a leading member of Ellis Medicine’s cardiac care team.
Farapulse is a catheter-based system that uses controlled electrical pulses to precisely target heart tissue, restoring normal rhythm without the use of thermal energy (heat or cold). Unlike traditional ablation techniques, pulsed field ablation minimizes the risk of damage to nearby tissue and is associated with fewer complications, faster procedures, and improved patient outcomes.
“We’re proud to bring this innovative technology to our patients,” said Dr. Giovannone (pictured below, right). “Farapulse offers a safer, more efficient way to treat atrial fibrillation—and it reflects Ellis Medicine’s commitment to staying at the forefront of cardiovascular care.”
“Atrial fibrillation is increasingly common, and technologies like Farapulse allow physicians to treat more patients more safely and effectively,” Dr. Giovannone added. “It’s a meaningful step forward not just for individual patients, but for public health.”
AFib is the most common type of heart rhythm disorder, affecting nearly 7 million Americans and tens of millions more worldwide. It occurs when the heart’s upper chambers beat irregularly, which can impair blood flow and increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other complications.
Successfully introducing new, FDA-approved technologies like Farapulse requires more than clinical expertise—it calls for a coordinated, multidisciplinary effort. Ellis Medicine credits this achievement to the collaboration of numerous departments, including from clinical services and Quality & Safety to Supply Chain and IT – all working together in the spirit of innovation and patient-centered care.
This latest advancement reflects Ellis Medicine’s continued leadership in cardiac care and its mission to deliver cutting-edge, compassionate healthcare close to home.
Ellis Medicine | Newsroom
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