Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) has achieved another milestone in cardiovascular care by becoming the first hospital in Malaysia to introduce Abbott’s VOLT™ Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) System, a next-generation technology designed to treat patients with heart rhythm disorders, particularly atrial fibrillation (AFib). The introduction of this advanced system strengthens IJN’s commitment to providing safer, more precise and minimally invasive treatment options for patients with complex cardiac conditions.

Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common heart rhythm disorders, occurring when the upper chambers of the heart beat irregularly. If left untreated, AFib may increase the risk of serious complications such as stroke, heart failure and other cardiovascular problems. While treatment options vary depending on each patient’s condition, catheter ablation has become an important approach for suitable patients seeking better rhythm control.

The VOLT™ PFA System introduces a new approach to cardiac ablation through pulsed field ablation (PFA), which uses high-energy electrical pulses to target heart tissue responsible for abnormal electrical signals. Unlike conventional thermal ablation methods that rely on heat or cold energy, PFA is designed to selectively affect cardiac tissue while reducing the potential risk of damage to surrounding structures.

Designed for greater precision and efficiency, the VOLT™ PFA System features a balloon-in-basket catheter technology that enables targeted energy delivery to affected areas. When integrated with Abbott’s EnSite™ X EP System, the technology supports advanced mapping, pacing and ablation procedures through a streamlined workflow, allowing physicians to deliver treatment tailored to each patient’s heart anatomy and condition.


According to IJN, the technology offers several potential advantages, including improved procedural efficiency, reduced catheter repositioning and greater flexibility during treatment. Clinical data from Abbott’s VOLT CE Mark study demonstrated successful pulmonary vein isolation in 99.1 per cent of treated veins, highlighting the system’s effectiveness in supporting atrial fibrillation ablation procedures.

The technology also provides additional flexibility for suitable patients, as procedures may potentially be performed under conscious sedation instead of general anaesthesia, depending on medical assessment and clinical practice. This may benefit patients who face challenges with general anaesthesia. The system is also designed to minimise radiation exposure through reduced fluoroscopy use while supporting safer procedural outcomes.

Datuk Dr. Azlan Hussin, Senior Consultant Cardiologist and Head of Electrophysiology and Implantable Cardiac Devices at IJN, highlighted that the VOLT™ PFA System gives physicians greater control and precision when treating atrial fibrillation. He noted that every patient presents different anatomical and rhythm challenges, making personalised treatment approaches essential in achieving effective outcomes.

He emphasised that the introduction of the technology does not replace existing ablation methods but expands the range of treatment options available to doctors. By having access to multiple advanced technologies, IJN’s specialists can select the most appropriate approach based on individual patient needs and medical conditions.

Prof. Dato’ Sri Dr. Mohamed Ezani Md Taib, Group Chief Executive Officer of IJN, said the adoption of the VOLT™ PFA System reflects the institution’s ongoing commitment to bringing meaningful medical innovation to Malaysian patients. He highlighted that technological advancement should ultimately translate into safer procedures, greater treatment precision and improved patient outcomes.

The introduction of Abbott’s VOLT™ PFA System further reinforces IJN’s position as a leading centre for electrophysiology and complex cardiac care in the region. Through continuous investment in advanced medical technologies and evidence-based treatments, IJN remains committed to enhancing cardiovascular care and ensuring patients in Malaysia have access to world-class heart treatment options.