Treating Atrial Fibrillation With The Maze Procedure

Over 2 million people in the U.S. suffer from atrial fibrillation (also referred to as AF or AFib). The likelihood of developing the condition increases as you grow older. It is estimated that nearly 5% of those who are over the age of 65 suffer from it. While it has traditionally been treated with medications such as anti-arrhythmics and shock therapy, the Maze procedure is far more effective. In this article, we’ll provide a brief overview of atrial fibrillation and describe how Maze surgery resolves the condition.

Erratic Rhythm Within The Heart’s Chambers

Your heart consists of four chambers: two atria (upper) and two ventricles (lower). They relax and contract rhythmically in order for your heart to pump blood throughout your body. The rhythm is determined by electrical signals that are generated by your sinus node, a group of cells that are located within the upper right chamber. In effect, the sinus node functions like an organic pacemaker.

The electrical signals that are produced in the sinus node are supposed to follow a defined path through your atria and ventricles. Usually, they begin by travelling through the upper chambers of the heart, causing them to contract and force blood into the chambers below. The electrical impulses then move from the altrioventricular node through the ventricles, resulting in contraction.

Atrial fibrillation is characterized by an erratic heartbeat. The impulses from the sinus node flow through the atria chaotically, causing them to contract unpredictably. This can lead to heart palpitations, poor circulation, and breathing difficulties.

Resolving The Problem With The Maze Procedure

The Maze procedure is used to create a path along which electrical signals created by the sinus node can travel. This is accomplished by creating scar tissue. Because scar tissue cannot conduct electricity, it is capable of disrupting the erratic impulses and preventing them from occurring.

During the operation, a surgeon will make several small incisions into the left and right atria. The incisions must be precisely positioned to create a clear pathway for the impulses to follow. Once the incisions are made, they are promptly stitched back together to create scarring.

Open Versus Minimally Invasive Techniques

The Maze procedure can be performed either through open surgery (sternotomy) or by taking a minimally invasive approach. Open heart surgery requires that the sternum is split and the heart is stopped. There is a significant risk of infection and substantial postoperative pain.

Procedures that are minimally invasive lessen the need for such dreastic steps as splitthing the sternum or stopping the heart. Rather, multiple small incisions are made between the ribs; a camera and surgical instruments are inserted through the incisions to access the site and complete the procedure. There is less likelihood of infection and less pain following the procedure.

Though atrial fibrillation many times can lead to reduced heart function and even stroke, it is not always dangerous. If you suffer from AFib, it is wise to speak with your doctor regarding whether the Maze procedure is an appropriate form of treatment for your circumstances.

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