Abstract
Surgery for treating atrial fibrillation by the Maze procedure has been successful. However, the Maze procedure requires a median sternotomy and a cardiopulmonary bypass; therefore, the procedure is complex and invasive. On the other hand, the thoracoscopic mini Maze procedure has become widespread throughout Western countries. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of the thoracoscopic mini Maze procedure. Seventeen patients with lone atrial fibrillation were evaluated. Under general anesthesia using a double lumen tube, two ports and a small thoracotomy were created, and pulmonary vein isolation and ganglion plexi ablation were achieved bilaterally by a radiofrequency device. Furthermore, the left atrium appendage was removed. The mean operation time was 311 minutes, and mean duration of hospitalization was 5.5 days. No deaths were reported. Postoperative complications were seen in only 2 patients (11.7%). The recurrence of atrial fibrillation has not been observed up to now. The thoracoscopic mini Maze procedure is considered minimally invasive, safe, and moreover, conclusive for treating atrial fibrillation.
