Vandalia Health Mon Medical Center first in U.S. to use new AI-assisted technology during heart rhythm procedure in tandem with new ablation technology
Posted Date: 7/28/2026
Vandalia Health Mon Medical Center became the first hospital in the United States to perform a heart rhythm procedure using a new artificial intelligence-assisted technology designed to help physicians visualize the heart more clearly and perform procedures with greater precision. The achievement marks another national milestone for the hospital's nationally recognized electrophysiology program.
The new technology uses artificial intelligence to automatically integrate live ultrasound images of the heart with detailed maps of its electrical activity, giving physicians a clearer, real-time view of the heart during an ablation procedure, a minimally invasive treatment used to correct abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation (AFib). Previously, physicians had to perform this step manually. By automating the process, the technology helps physicians perform these complex procedures with greater efficiency and precision.
"This milestone reflects the exceptional skill of our electrophysiology team and Vandalia Health's commitment to bringing leading innovations to the patients we serve," said Krystal Atkinson, DNP, RN, CNOR, Senior Vice President, Vandalia Health. "Being the first hospital in the nation to perform a clinical case using this AI-assisted technology demonstrates that patients in our region have access to advanced cardiac care typically found only at a select number of centers across the country."
The procedure, performed by electrophysiologists Salam Sbaity, MD, and Matthew Gaskill, DO, was the first U.S. case to use Abbott’s EnSite X EP System with its new AI-assisted ICE integration capabilities in combination with the Volt Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) System.
Pulsed field ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat atrial fibrillation and other heart rhythm disorders. It uses highly targeted electrical pulses to correct abnormal heart rhythms without the heat or freezing used in traditional ablation techniques.
"This technology gives us an even clearer, real-time view of the heart during complex procedures, allowing us to work more efficiently while maintaining the precision our patients deserve," Dr. Sbaity said. "Artificial intelligence is enhancing our ability to deliver advanced care while allowing physicians to remain focused on the clinical decisions that matter most for each patient."
Mon Medical Center was among the first hospitals in the United States to perform procedures using Abbott’s Volt pulsed field ablation system and is among only a handful nationwide to combine the technology with integrated intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) guidance.
"This milestone demonstrates the strength of our heart rhythm program and the level of specialized care available to patients in West Virginia and the surrounding region," Dr. Gaskill said. "Our patients benefit by having access to technologies that are often available only at a small number of leading centers across the country, without having to travel far from home."
Mon Medical Center continues to build on its nationally recognized electrophysiology program, which includes advanced pulsed field ablation technologies, the WATCHMAN stroke prevention program and American College of Cardiology accreditation for electrophysiology care. The hospital has consistently been among the nation's leaders in adopting advanced technologies that expand access to innovative heart rhythm treatments and enhance care for patients with atrial fibrillation and other cardiac rhythm disorders.
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