At the TriHealth Heart & Vascular Institute, we offer the maze procedure, including minimally invasive robotic-assisted mini-maze, for patients who have not found success with medication and ablation, or for those who require surgery for other reasons in addition to their atrial fibrillation.
The maze technique creates scars to stop arrhythmia in a manner similar to catheter ablation procedures. The main difference is that the scars are created under direct vision.
The maze procedure is traditionally performed as open heart surgery and involves sternotomy – cutting through the breastbone and opening the ribs. This can cause significant trauma, prolong healing time and increase the risk for serious complications – even mortality.
The robotic-assisted maze procedure, performed at Good Samaritan Hospital, is done with unparalleled precision and control through a few small incisions along the side of the chest.
In addition to avoiding the pain and trauma of rib spreading, you may also experience several other benefits:
As with any surgery, these benefits cannot be guaranteed, as surgery is both patient- and procedure-specific. While the robotic-assisted maze procedure is considered safe and effective, it may not be appropriate for every individual. Always ask your doctor about all treatment options, as well as their risks and benefits.