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Updated: Jul 9, 2026
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Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 26, 2013
Surgical approaches for atrial fibrillation
A Marc Gillinov1, Adam E Saltman
1Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Desk F24, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA. gillinom@ccf.org
The Medical Clinics of North America
|December 7, 2007
Summary
Surgical ablation effectively treats atrial fibrillation (AF) alongside cardiac surgery. New minimally invasive techniques are advancing epicardial ablation for AF management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common complication in cardiac surgery patients.
- Surgical intervention offers a combined approach to correct structural heart disease and AF.
- Over 10,000 AF ablation procedures were projected for 2007.
Purpose of the Study:
- Review the rationale for surgical ablation of AF.
- Describe the classic maze procedure and its outcomes.
- Detail novel approaches in surgical AF ablation.
- Highlight left atrial appendage management.
- Discuss future challenges and directions in AF ablation.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on surgical AF ablation techniques.
- Description of the traditional Maze procedure.
- Exploration of minimally invasive epicardial ablation methods.
- Emphasis on surgical strategies for left atrial appendage exclusion.
Main Results:
- The classic Maze procedure demonstrates efficacy in treating AF during cardiac surgery.
- Minimally invasive techniques are emerging for stand-alone epicardial ablation.
- Management of the left atrial appendage is crucial for procedural success.
- Ongoing development aims to refine surgical ablation for improved outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Surgical ablation is a viable option for patients with cardiac structural disease and AF.
- Advancements in minimally invasive approaches are expanding treatment possibilities.
- Integrated management of AF and structural heart disease is key for optimal patient care.
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