Overview and Facts about Atrial Fibrillation Surgery - Maze Procedure
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a condition that causes an irregular heartbeat. AFib results from abnormal electrical signals within your heart. Without treatment, AFib can lead to stroke or heart attack.
AFib is often treated with medication. But in some cases, surgery may be necessary. Many forms of cardiac surgery, including surgical ablation, are available. Surgical ablation is also known as the maze procedure. This procedure creates a pattern of scar tissue in the heart. Because scar tissue doesn't carry electricity, this procedure can stabilize abnormal heart rhythms.
What to Expect during Atrial Fibrillation Surgery - Maze Procedure
Before you undergo this type of atrial fibrillation surgery, your doctor will perform tests to determine whether surgery is right for you. If surgery is necessary, your doctor will consult with you about the best procedure. Maze procedure takes place inside a hospital.
First, your medical team gives you anesthesia so you will sleep through the surgery. The doctor will also place you on a heart-lung bypass machine to keep your blood circulating during your heart surgery. Next, your surgeon makes an incision in your chest to access your heart. One or more surgical techniques are used to create scar tissue.
The techniques used during your procedure may vary. Traditional maze procedures use open surgery. During this process, the surgeon opens up your chest to access your heart.
Modified maze procedures can also be another option. This minimally invasive surgery uses tiny incisions and small instruments, including a camera that allows them to see the heart inside of the chest. Patients who receive a modified procedure may recover more quickly.
Your surgeon will discuss which procedure will be used for you. While modified procedures are a good choice for many patients, open surgery is sometimes a better option.
If you need other procedures, like valve repair, your surgeon may opt for open surgery. This way, your surgeon can perform multiple procedures at once.
Most patients will need to spend a few days in the hospital following the procedure. Some patients may need to remain in the hospital for a week or longer.
What are the Side Effects of Atrial Fibrillation Surgery - Maze Procedure?
Maze procedures are highly effective and resolve AFib in about 90% of patients. However, some patients continue to have abnormal heart rhythms. These symptoms usually disappear after a few months as your heart heals.
You may experience chest pain and fatigue during your recovery. These side effects are normal and usually go away within a few months. It can take six to eight weeks to recover after a maze procedure.
What are the Risks of Atrial Fibrillation Surgery - Maze Procedure?
All surgery carries some risks. Maze procedure patients may be at risk for:
-
Bleeding
-
Blood clots
-
Heart attacks
-
Infection
-
Pneumonia
-
Stroke
In rare cases, maze procedures may cause life-threatening complications. Your medical team performs a careful evaluation before recommending surgery. If you're at risk for complications, your doctor can help you review other treatment options.
