@tekkie50 Depends on the EP's experience with PFA and with what he/she finds needs that application of the appliance's energy. Most EPs will only try a PVI* first, especially for paroxysmal AF patients. As your stages evolve over time, and if you get more walls affected by the reentrants where the signals emerge into the endothelial lining of the left atrium, the EP will have to spend more time finding them and then zapping them to stop their intrusions. So, the answer is, it depends.

PVI = Pulmonary Vein Isolation

@tekkie50 I am 5 days post ablation and I am so happy with the results! I counted down the days until I could get this done! I had PFA and my electrophysiologist was highly respected and experienced in my area. I am barely a year into the A-fib diagnosis and almost one year from my first (and only) cardioversion. Because I was still considered paroxysmal, I felt ver hopeful that this ablation would work for me. As to the "basic" ablation that some talk about, I think my EP did a much better job than just the "cookie cutter" version that some docs do. I read the surgical report on my chart, and although I can't understand everything technical, I see that he took his time and made sure that he hit all the necessary spots in spite of what he described as my "unique anatomy in the left atria." I also read the anesthesia report, looked up all the meds given and marveled at how they manage the patients under general anesthsia. My ablation lasted from about 9:30 am to about 12:50 pm when I was taken off intubation. I had a smooth recovery and stayed overnight in the hospital--which he had anticipated and for which I am grateful. I have followed his directions to the letter! I am off Cardizem and my blood pressure and pulse are excellent. I am more than thrilled; I feel so lucky. I sincerely wish the same for you. You sound as motivated as I was to get this done. I have made so many lifestyle changes and I was in pretty good shape to begin with but at 79 years young, I feel very appreciative that I received the excellent treatment that all patients deserve! Best wishes to you! I hope you let us know how it works out for you! Good luck!