HEARTLIGHT X3 SYSTEM TO TREAT ATRIAL FIBRILLATION AVAILABLE NOW
PHILADELPHIA, October 14, 2021
Jefferson Health – Abington has successfully completed its 50th HeartLight procedure — a major milestone for the hospital’s cardiac team. In addition to this achievement, Jefferson Health – Abington remains the only hospital in Pennsylvania offering the next-generation HeartLight X3 technology. This advanced system combines precise laser energy with an ultra-flexible balloon, allowing physicians to deliver fast, consistent, and lasting pulmonary vein isolation for patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AFib).
What is Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation, commonly known as “AFib,” is an irregular heart rhythm that occurs when the heart’s electrical signals misfire, causing it to beat rapidly and unevenly. This irregular rhythm interferes with the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently, which can lead to complications such as stroke, fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Over time, AFib can significantly affect a person’s quality of life. Each year, an estimated 3 to 6 million Americans are affected by this condition.
How is AFib Treated?
One of the most effective treatment options for AFib is Pulmonary Vein Isolation (PVI) — a minimally invasive procedure that targets the source of the irregular heartbeat. During the procedure, a catheter is inserted through a vein in the leg and guided to the heart. Once in place, energy is used to create small areas of scar tissue that block abnormal electrical signals. This approach helps restore normal rhythm, often with minimal discomfort and recovery time.
What Makes HeartLight X3 Unique?
The HeartLight X3 system is the first and only PVI technology that integrates five key innovations — laser energy, direct visual guidance, adjustable energy levels, a highly compliant balloon design, and a built-in motor. Together, these features allow for continuous and precise lesion creation under direct physician control.
Clinical results from the X3 Pivotal Confirmatory Trial show that 71.9% of patients treated with the HeartLight X3 system remained free from AFib one year after the procedure.
Other benefits of HeartLight X3 include:
Average procedure time of about one hour
Pulmonary vein isolation in as little as three minutes
Approximately seven-minute fluoroscopy time
Most patients experience successful treatment in a single procedure and can usually return home the same day or within 24 hours.
About Jefferson Health – Abington
Jefferson Health – Abington encompasses Jefferson Abington Hospital in Abington, PA, and Jefferson Lansdale Hospital in Hatfield Township, PA, along with multiple outpatient care centers throughout Bucks, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties.
Founded in 1914, Jefferson Abington Hospital is the largest community teaching hospital in Montgomery and Bucks counties. Its Heart and Vascular Institute provides comprehensive cardiac care through advanced technology, specialized surgical expertise, and innovative treatment programs. With a highly skilled cardiovascular team and a commitment to excellence, the Institute ranks among the busiest and most respected cardiac centers in the Delaware Valley region.
Media Contact:
Rebecca Goodman
215.920.0770