March 17, 2026 – In a milestone for Broward Health, Jose L. Baez-Escudero, M.D., chief of cardiology and electrophysiology, has performed the first atrial fibrillation (AFib) ablation in Broward County using the VARIPULSE™ Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) Catheter, marking a significant advancement in the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias for patients.
“As Broward County’s first healthcare system to offer this technology, we are setting a new standard for electrophysiology care in our community,” said Dr. Baez, who performed the procedure at Broward Health Medical Center. “Innovations such as pulsed field ablation reflect our commitment to care, combining advanced technology with coordinated, patient-centered expertise to achieve the best possible outcomes.”
Advancing AFib Treatment in Broward County
Representing a next generation approach to AFib ablation, the VARIPULSE™ Platform is designed to deliver precise pulsed field energy to targeted heart tissue and enables safe, efficient and patient-centric therapy with minimal to no fluoroscopy (radiation) exposure.
The VARIPULSE™ Platform is the first pulsed field ablation system fully integrated with the CARTO™ 3 Mapping System, a 3D mapping tool, creating a single-workflow approach for mapping and ablation. Other key features include real-time visualization and feedback to enhance precision and reproducibility; a first-of-its-kind fully integrated, variable-loop multielectrode catheter that supports both cardiac mapping and therapy through the TRUPULSE™ Generator; and advanced procedural endpoint indicators not currently available with other pulsed field ablation solutions.
With more than 45,000 procedures performed globally and a low complication rate, the VARIPULSE™ Platform has also demonstrated a strong safety profile. Clinical data also reveals meaningful patient benefits, including significant symptom relief and measurable improvements in quality of life just one year after the procedure.
Strengthening a Unified Cardiovascular Program
As Broward Health’s first systemwide chief of cardiology, Dr. Baez has enhanced subspecialty cardiovascular programs to ensure patients benefit from the unified, multidisciplinary team approach. His leadership continues to expand innovative treatment solutions while strengthening coordination across the health system.
Among the electrophysiology services at Broward Health Medical Center are catheter ablations, cardiac rhythm management device implants and left atrial appendage occlusion procedures. These services complement the extensive and comprehensive range of cardiology subspecialties offered throughout Broward Health’s hospitals and outpatient centers.
The addition of pulsed field ablation technology reinforces Broward Health’s long-term commitment to improving heart health and advancing the vision of championing a healthier community.
For more information about Broward Health’s heart and vascular services, visit BrowardHealth.org/Heart.
About Broward Health
Broward Health, founded in 1938 and headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, ranks among the 10 largest public healthcare systems in the United States. Nationally recognized for its focus on high-quality care for the residents of Broward County and beyond, Broward Health boasts five hospitals, two trauma centers, was the county’s first statutory teaching hospital and has an ever-growing graduate medical education program. It includes more than 50 health centers and physician practices covering virtually every healthcare specialty.
Broward Health never stops working toward its mission of Exceptional Care, Extraordinary Compassion and Everyday Excellence. Driven by more than 11,000 talented employees and physicians who deliver care to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay, Broward Health is one of the largest employers in Broward County with an operating budget of $1.8 billion and annually provides almost $520 million in charity and uncompensated care.
For more information about Broward Health, visit BrowardHealth.org.