Maze Procedure for Atrial Fibrillation

The Modified Maze procedure is used in surgery for atrial fibrillation, and generally completed at the same time the patient is having another type of heart surgery, such as a coronary artery bypass or valve replacement.  Because this is performed during open-heart surgery, it only takes a few minutes to create the necessary set of lesions to block the irregular electrical impulses that cause AF.    Experience shows this type of surgery can eliminate AF in about 96% of patients. (1) 

The surgical procedure consists of creating a number of incisions in the atrium that disrupt the arrhythmia. Once the incisions are made, they are sewn together again. The atrium can then regain its' function, storing blood on its way to the ventricle and contracting to push the blood in to the ventricle.  The  electrical impulse that creates the arrhythmia cannot cross the incisions. The result is what looks like a maze of electrical current in the heart, leaving only the correct path for the electrical impulse of the heart.  The heart will no longer "fibrillate," and the rhythm of the heart is restored.

Side effects of this surgery are similar to other heart surgeries and will vary depending upon the other surgeries being performed.  The decision for the type of treatment for atrial fibrillation is complex and involves the input of multiple doctors, including internists, cardiologists, and a cardiac surgeon.  If you would like to discuss your situation with a heart surgeon, please contact us to schedule an appointment.

References
1. Prasad SM, Maniar HS, Camillo CJ, Schuessler, RB et al. The Cox maze III procedure for atrial fibrillation: Long-term efficacy in patients undergoing lone versus concomitant procedures. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2003;126:1822-8.