- Minimally invasive procedure targets abnormal nerve signals affecting heart rhythm
- Offers an alternative to permanent pacemaker implantation in selected patients
- Marks a shift in cardiac care from symptom management to root-cause treatment
In a step that reflects the evolution of cardiac care from managing symptoms to treating underlying causes, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has successfully performed the first cardiac neuroablation procedure in the United Arab Emirates. The minimally invasive intervention offers a new treatment pathway for patients suffering from recurrent fainting episodes, without the need for permanent pacemaker implantation in many cases.
Available in only a limited number of advanced cardiac centers globally, cardiac neuroablation represents a significant advancement in the treatment of heart rhythm disorders linked to the autonomic nervous system. By targeting the root cause of the condition, the procedure moves beyond traditional approaches that rely on long-term device-based management. It also reinforces the hospital’s position as a Centre of Excellence for Adult Cardiac Surgery as designated by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi.
The procedure focuses on abnormal nerve signals—particularly those associated with overactivity of the vagus nerve—that can trigger sudden drops in heart rate and blood pressure, leading to recurrent loss of consciousness. Through precise modulation of these signals, cardiac neuroablation helps restore stable heart rhythm control in a targeted and minimally invasive way.
Dr. Georges-Pascal Haber, CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, commented: “This milestone reflects our commitment to delivering advanced cardiac care aligned with the highest international standards, while strengthening national capabilities and reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a regional hub for complex and specialized care.”
While isolated fainting episodes are relatively common, the treated case involved a 48-year-old patient experiencing frequent, unpredictable episodes that significantly impacted her daily life and sense of safety. Living with the constant uncertainty of sudden fainting limited her ability to function normally. While permanent pacemaker implantation is often the standard treatment in such cases, cardiac neuroablation offered a more targeted approach by addressing the underlying cause of the condition.
Dr. Fereidoon Shafiei, Staff Physician, Cardiovascular Medicine Department of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Institute said, “The introduction of cardiac neuroablation in the UAE marks an important milestone in advanced cardiac care. It allows us to precisely target the root cause of abnormal heart rhythm. In many cases, we can eliminate recurrent fainting episodes and avoid the need for a permanent device, offering patients a safer and more definitive solution.”
The procedure is performed using specialized catheters guided through blood vessels to the heart, with advanced mapping technologies enabling physicians to precisely identify and selectively modify the nerve pathways responsible for abnormal heart rate regulation—without the need for open-heart surgery.
Dr. Khalid Bakr, Associate Staff Physician, Cardiovascular Medicine Department of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Institute added: “This highly specialized, catheter-based procedure demonstrates how precision techniques can transform outcomes in complex conditions. It can make a meaningful difference in patients’ quality of life by significantly reducing—or eliminating—recurrent fainting episodes.”
Following the procedure, the patient showed early improvement, with stable heart rhythm observed during follow-up. She was able to return to her normal daily activities without further fainting episodes, with a noticeable improvement in energy levels and overall quality of life.
The introduction of cardiac neuroablation reflects a broader shift toward more precise, integrated models of care—focused on early detection, targeted intervention, and the delivery of advanced treatments closer to patients. It also reinforces Abu Dhabi’s growing role in bringing globally advanced medical innovations into real-world clinical practice.