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[Atrial fibrillation surgery using intraoperative radiofrequency]
J Q Queiróz e Melo1, P Adragão, J Neves
1Serviço de Cirurgia Cardiotorácica, Hospital de Santa Cruz, Carnaxide.
Summary
Radiofrequency ablation offers a less invasive surgical option for atrial fibrillation. This case report details a successful pulmonary vein isolation using continuous linear ablation, avoiding extensive incisions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Supraventricular tachyarrhythmias are often treated with radiofrequency ablation.
- Current surgical atrial fibrillation treatments involve extensive atrial incisions.
- Minimally invasive techniques are sought to improve outcomes.
Observation:
- A 67-year-old woman with chronic atrial fibrillation and rheumatic mitral/tricuspid valve disease was studied.
- Pulmonary vein isolation was performed using continuous linear ablation.
- Mitral valve replacement and tricuspid valve annuloplasty were done concurrently.
Findings:
- The patient maintained a stable sinus rhythm five months post-surgery.
- The patient achieved NYHA functional class I.
Implications:
- Continuous linear ablation around pulmonary veins is a viable alternative to extensive incisions for atrial fibrillation.
- This approach may offer a less invasive surgical option for patients requiring concomitant valve surgery.
- Further research into this technique could refine surgical management of atrial fibrillation.