Minimally invasive maze procedure uses cryotherapy,
radiofrequency ablation, microwaves, ultrasound, or small incisions in order to
create scar tissue across the heart. This blocks the flow of electrical
impulses and forces them to travel in a maze-like pattern through the heart and
to the ventricles. This procedure is performed with several small incisions
through the ribs to access the heart.
Also Known As:
- Maze
procedure
- Maze heart
procedure
- Simplified
maze procedure
Conditions
Treated with Minimally Invasive Maze Procedure:
Minimally invasive maze procedure may be performed
in cases of atrial fibrillation.
Non-surgical alternatives to minimally invasive maze
procedure include lifestyle changes, beta blockers and blood thinners. Surgical
alternatives to the procedure include implantable cardioverter defibrillator
and the maze procedure performed openly or robotically assisted.
Anesthesia
with Minimally Invasive Maze Procedure:
Minimally invasive maze procedure is performed under
general anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep and completely
unaware during the procedure.
Potential
Complications from Minimally Invasive Maze Procedure:
Possible risks following minimally invasive maze
procedure include infection, bleeding, scarring, blood clots and a negative
reaction to the anesthesia.
Prognosis
after Minimally Invasive Maze Procedure:
The prognosis for a positive end result following
minimally invasive maze procedure is good.
Recovery
from Minimally Invasive Maze Procedure:
Total recovery from minimally invasive maze
procedure takes two weeks.