Larry’s journey to heart health: How MercyOne Iowa Heart Center helped him beat atrial fibrillation

September 2, 2025

Larry Loss

Learn more about MercyOne Heart and Vascular Care

Active cyclist finds relief through Pulsed Field Ablation at MercyOne Des Moines

Larry Loss, 66, of Clive, Iowa, has always led an active lifestyle. But in 2020, while winding down for the night, he noticed his heart racing. His smartwatch confirmed what he suspected—he was experiencing atrial fibrillation (Afib), a condition that increases the risk of stroke and other heart complications.

Concerned, Larry’s wife Mary drove him to MercyOne West Des Moines Emergency Care, where his heart returned to normal rhythm after an hour. Following tests to rule out a heart attack, Larry was prescribed Metoprolol, a beta blocker, and referred to Dr. Mohit Chawla, an electrophysiologist at MercyOne Iowa Heart Center.

“That first episode was scary,” Larry recalls. “But I felt reassured knowing I was in good hands.”

Recurring Afib episodes and a turning point

Over the next four years, Larry experienced six Afib episodes. One occurred while recovering from a biking accident in 2022, and another followed a long, dehydrating ride in 2024. Though his heart rhythm returned to normal each time, the frequency of episodes increased.

“When I had three episodes in one week, I knew it was time to take action,” Larry said.

After consulting with Dr. Chawla, Larry learned he was an excellent candidate for a new, FDA-approved procedure called FARAPULSE™ Pulsed Field Ablation. Unlike traditional ablation methods that use heat or cold, this technique uses targeted electrical pulses to safely isolate the heart tissue causing abnormal rhythms—minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Heart ablation at MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center

Larry underwent the minimally invasive pulsed field heart ablation procedure in November 2024 in the electrophysiology lab at MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center, where Dr. Chawla had previously performed the first FDA-approved pulsed field ablation in central Iowa.

“I was nervous about heart surgery, but Dr. Chawla and the MercyOne team made me feel confident,” Larry said. “I went home the same day and received outstanding care before, during and after the procedure.”

Afterwards, he was able to stop taking Flecainide which he was previously prescribed to help stabilize his heart rhythm.

Back on the bike and back to life

After six weeks of recovery, Larry gradually resumed his cycling routine, starting with indoor rides on his Peloton. He monitored his heart rate and blood pressure closely and felt no issues.

“I’ve ridden over 3,000 miles since my ablation surgery,” Larry shared. “I feel great and even enjoyed a walking-heavy trip to Europe with Mary.

Now on just one medication, Larry continues to follow up with Dr. Chawla at MercyOne Iowa Heart Center West Des Moines every six months.

Larry's advice: Don't ignore heart symptoms

Larry encourages others not to delay care if they notice irregular heart rhythms.

“Afib is serious. If something feels off, get checked right away. MercyOne made everything easy, and I’m so happy with the results of my heart ablation procedure.”