Mini Maze Procedure for Atrial Fibrillation

A minimally-invasive surgery called Mini-Maze has recently been used to treat atrial fibrillation. This procedure involves just three small incisions on each side of the chest. A surgeon uses an energy source (radiofrequency energy, laser, microwave, etc) to make precise linear scars, or lesions, on the heart to block the irregular electrical impulses that cause AF. The procedure usually takes about 2 to 4 hours and the length of hospital stay is around 4 days. Early surgical experience shows this type of surgery may eliminate AF in about 91% of patients. (1)

Some of the possible side effects may include a collapsed lung which can be corrected with a chest tube, inflammation of the veins (phlebitis), inflammation of the thin layer of tissue around the heart (pericarditis), damage to the heart or blood vessels, and long-term shortness of breath. The FDA has not currently approved this procedure for treating atrial fibrillation.

The specific treatment plan for atrial fibrillation is a complex decision 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.

In Mini-Maze surgery, doctors use a very precise instrument that fits around the top of the atrium and destroys a small amount of tissue in the area near where the irregular impulses start.

Mini Maze Surgery for Atrial Fibrillation

The damaged tissue can no longer conduct electrical signals, thereby interrupting the transmission of the impulses.

With the abnormal signals unable to cross the zone of defense, the atria resumes beating normally.

References
1. Wolf RK, Schneeberger EW, Osterday R, et al. Video-assisted bilateral pulmonary vein isolation and left atrial appendage exclusion for atrial fibrillation. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2005;130(7):797-802.