Minimally Invasive Off-Pump Pulmonary Vein Isolation to Treat Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation

Abstract

Background: Minimally invasive off-pump pulmonary vein isolation to cure paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) may be an alternative to percutaneous catheter-based procedures. Methods: Three patients with highly symptomatic lone PAF refractory to medical treatment and having undergone unsuccessful catheter-based ablation underwent pulmonary vein isolation using the Cardioblate® BP device with a minimally invasive approach. Results: There were no complications and all patients were discharged in sinus rhythm. Mean ablation time per lesion was 15.2 sec and mean operation time was 118 min. Conclusions: Irrigated bipolar radiofrequency ablation of the pulmonary veins is safe and can be performed off-pump in a minimally invasive manner.

Key words

Atrial fibrillation - arrhythmia surgery - minimally invasive cardiac surgery

References

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