What is the difference between ablation and maze procedure?
One of the easiest ways to understand the difference between the two procedures is that catheter/cardiac ablation destroys the tissue that causes the arrhythmia. Maze surgery, on the other hand, redirects the inconsistent electrical impulses (via scar tissue) to correct the arrhythmia.
When do you need a maze ablation?
The maze procedure is appropriate for patients with highly symptomatic atrial fibrillation, patients in whom catheter ablation has failed, and patients who have a history of stroke or other blood clots. The success rate is approximately 80% to 90%, varying with patient characteristics.
How does a maze procedure work?
The maze procedure creates scars in strategic places in the atria (the heart’s two upper chambers). This creates a “maze” of scar tissue that the surgeon creates with the application of cold energy (cryoablation). The maze can prevent faulty electrical signals from causing AFib.
How long does the maze procedure last?
The surgery takes about 3 hours. For patients who have AF along with other heart problems like coronary artery disease or valve disease, the surgeon may combine Maze surgery with other operations that will correct both problems.
How successful is the maze procedure?
Results. Surgical maze procedures have a high success rate, with from 70% to 95% of people being free of atrial fibrillation long term after the procedure. Some people may still need medications to help control their irregular heart rhythm after the procedure.
How much does the maze procedure cost?
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| Strategy | Total Cost | Delta Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cox maze procedure | $30,532 | $23,791 |
| Lifetime results | ||
| Catheter ablation | $208,371 | |
| Cox maze procedure | $232,162 | $23,791 |
Do you need anticoagulation after maze procedure?
The 6 month time point was chosen as it is our practice to recommend anticoagulation for all patients following the Maze procedure for the first 3 months post-op. After 3 months, the decision for anticoagulation is based on the treating physician’s preference (usually the referring cardiologist).
How successful is the Maze procedure?
Why am I so tired after my cardiac ablation?
Also, your heart rhythm may feel faster than usual for a period of time and you may feel tired as your heart and body need time to adjust. These symptoms will improve on their own over time.
What to expect after a maze procedure?
Hospitalization. With a cardiac ablation,people usually go home the same day or the next day.
How do I perform the maze procedure?
To perform a minimally invasive Maze (mini-Maze) procedure, your surgeon and anesthesiologist use general anesthesia. Then, your surgeon: Creates one 3- to 4-inch incision or several one-half inch incisions through the chest wall between the ribs (thoracotomy).
What is the success rate of the maze procedure?
The maze procedure as a treatment for AFib is highly effective. The Mayo Clinic estimates that the specialized surgery restores normal function in 75 to 95 percent of those with AFib. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, cryomaze can result in a 75 to 80 percent success rate.
When is a maze procedure a maze procedure?
The maze procedure is the preferred method of atrial fibrillation treatment if you also need another heart surgery, such as for coronary artery bypass or valve repair. In these cases, the maze procedure is done during open-heart surgery.