Re: atrial fibrilation

Posted By CCF CARDIO MD-APS on September 13, 1998 at 10:59:07:

In Reply to: atrial fibrilation posted by sylvia mills on September 09, 1998 at 11:52:40:






I heard on the news that there is a new surgery for atrial fibrilation, I think it is being done in indianapolis hospital. and cleveland clinic. I would like any info concerning this subject. thank you



___


Dear Sylvia,
I believe what you speak of is the maze procedure and this is an open heart
surgical procedure whereby the technique is aimed at preventing the circuit of
a.fib from continuing it's electrical disarray by cutting through mapped areas
of the atria (upper chambers of the heart).  If a patient has atrial fibrillation
and has failed every medical attempt to put the patient back in sinus rhythm, then
usually it is the specialized cardiologist called an electrophysiologist who deals
in heart rhythms only that has done all that s/he can and might suggest along with
the patient's general cardiologist such a procedure.  Certainly, surgery with its
inherent risks is not a first line therapy.  It would be best for you to discuss this
with your cardiologist, preferably an electrophysiologist who knows all the facts
regarding your health and atrial fibrillation.  If you would like the opinion of
an electrophysiologist at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, simply call 1-800-CCF-CARE
and ask for one of the EP cardiologists at desk F15 (for example, there is Dr.Kidwell,
Dr.Cheung, and Dr.Tchou.)  Good Luck.  And please write back with any further questions,
especially if there is any point you do not understand in what I have said, especially
since I am guessing at what your question refers to.
Information provided in the heart forum is intended for general medical informational
purposes, actual diagnosis and treatment can only be made by your physician(s).