BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of the irrigated radiofrequency modified maze procedure through a port-access approach during mitral valve surgery. METHODS: Forty-three patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and mitral valve disease underwent a combined procedure through a port-access approach. The indication was a history of continuous AF for more than 6 months in patients eligible for minimally invasive mitral valve surgery. RESULTS: The incidence of early mortality was 1 patient (2.3%), and that of freedom from AF was 100% at the end of the operation (70% of patients with normal sinus rhythm, 30% with a pacemaker). One patient (2.3%) required permanent pacemaker implantation after surgery. One patient (2.3%) required reoperation for bleeding. There were no reoperations for failed valve repairs. The incidences of freedom from AF were 87% and 92% at 6 and 12 months, respectively. At 12 months, functional capacity had improved significantly (P < .05). There were no procedure-related complications. No thromboembolic events were detected during follow-up. CONCLUSION: The port-access approach provided a good access for both valve surgery and the radiofrequency maze procedure. The combination of direct and videoscopic vision allowed an adequate view and led to a safe and efficient combined procedure. Short- and intermediate-term follow-up results were favorable.
BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of the irrigated radiofrequency modified maze procedure through a port-access approach during mitral valve surgery. METHODS: Forty-three patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and mitral valve disease underwent a combined procedure through a port-access approach. The indication was a history of continuous AF for more than 6 months in patients eligible for minimally invasive mitral valve surgery. RESULTS: The incidence of early mortality was 1 patient (2.3%), and that of freedom from AF was 100% at the end of the operation (70% of patients with normal sinus rhythm, 30% with a pacemaker). One patient (2.3%) required permanent pacemaker implantation after surgery. One patient (2.3%) required reoperation for bleeding. There were no reoperations for failed valve repairs. The incidences of freedom from AF were 87% and 92% at 6 and 12 months, respectively. At 12 months, functional capacity had improved significantly (P < .05). There were no procedure-related complications. No thromboembolic events were detected during follow-up. CONCLUSION: The port-access approach provided a good access for both valve surgery and the radiofrequency maze procedure. The combination of direct and videoscopic vision allowed an adequate view and led to a safe and efficient combined procedure. Short- and intermediate-term follow-up results were favorable.
Authors: H Tarık Kızıltan; Aslı İdem; Salih Salihi; Ali Soner Demir; Aşkın Ali Korkmaz; Mustafa Güden Journal: J Cardiothorac Surg Date: 2015-04-17 Impact factor: 1.637