We offer a wide variety of treatment options for atrial fibrillation (Afib), including the MAZE procedure. During this open-heart procedure, cardiothoracic surgeons create a maze of incisions on the surface of the atrium and then sew them up again. Scar tissue forms at the site of the incisions and traps abnormal electrical signals responsible for irregular heartbeats. The heart’s electrical pulse travels through the created pathway, restoring sinus rhythm and eliminating AF.
What Is Sinus Rhythm?
Sinus rhythm is the name for a normal heartbeat. An electrical signal passes through the heart to make it beat and efficiently pump blood through your body. In a correctly functioning heart, the electrical signal starts in the sinoatrial (SA) node located in the right atrium. From the SA node, the electrical signal passes through both atria, through the atrioventricular (AV) node and causes the ventricles to contract.
What Is Afib?
Afib occurs when the electrical signal from the SA node to the ventricles is disrupted. Instead of the chambers of the heart beating in sync, the heart may beat too fast or too slow. This may feel like your heart is fluttering.
There are many causes of Afib, but age is the most common. Family history may also play a significant role in your risk for Afib.
Afib may be managed with medication, but for those looking for other solutions, the MAZE procedure or the Convergent Procedure may be excellent options.
If you and your cardiologist have decided to pursue treatment options for Afib other than medication therapy, call Parkridge Cardiothoracic Surgeons at (423) 698-2435 to schedule an evaluation.