A new device developed at The Ohio State University is revolutionizing the safety of atrial fibrillation surgery. According to the CDC, over 12 million people in the U.S. are projected to suffer from atrial fibrillation by 2030, a condition that can lead to serious complications like stroke and heart failure if left untreated.

The device, known as ESOlution, addresses the risks associated with traditional heart ablation procedures, which can sometimes cause life-threatening complications such as esophageal injuries. By moving the esophagus away from the heart during surgery, the device significantly reduces the likelihood of such injuries occurring.

In a recent clinical trial, it was found that the ESOlution device led to less than five percent of patients experiencing any esophageal injuries, a significant improvement from the approximately 33 percent seen with traditional procedures. This breakthrough not only enhances the safety of the surgery but also allows for the delivery of larger amounts of ablation energy, potentially improving the effectiveness of the procedure.

Amanda Mitchem, a patient who underwent the ablation procedure with the ESOlution device, shared her remarkable recovery story. Previously struggling to carry out simple tasks due to atrial fibrillation, Amanda regained her quality of life and even had the energy to visit her granddaughter in West Virginia after the surgery.

Doctors at The Ohio State University are hopeful that the ESOlution device will receive FDA approval later this year. The device's innovative design marks a significant advancement in the treatment of atrial fibrillation, offering new hope for millions of individuals affected by this condition.