Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 9, 2026

Cox-Maze IV Procedure Concomitant with Valvular Surgery In Situs Inversus Dextrocardia: A Single-Center Experience in China
Published on: February 11, 2022
Atrial fibrillation surgery for patients with rheumatic valve disease
1Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan. yosuke-i@nms.ac.jp
Abstract:
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is commonly associated with rheumatic valve disease. The dilated left atrium, degeneration of the left atrial myocardium, and elevated atrial pressure all contribute to perpetuation of AF. Over the past decade, the Maze procedure has evolved into the gold standard of treatment for medically refractory AF. The atrial incisions of the Maze procedure are designed to block potential macroreentrant pathways and propagation of microreentrant wavelets. The dilated left atrium and degeneration of the atrial myocardium caused by rheumatic inflammation participate in recurrence of postoperative AF years after surgery. Increased inflammatory response correlates with occurrence of postoperative AF. Pre- and postoperative anti-inflammatory therapy might be effective in decreasing the recurrence of AF in rheumatic heart disease patients. This article reviews the mechanisms of AF and surgical procedures in rheumatic valve disease.
Related Concept Videos
Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management
Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management
Rheumatic Heart Disease III: Medical Management
Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
Rheumatic Heart Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Mitral Regurgitation III: Medical Management

