The MAZE is a surgical procedure for atrial fibrillation (afib) ablation. In afib, rapid, irregular electrical impulses cause the heart to beat inefficiently, increasing the risk for heart attack and stroke. In the upper chambers of the heart, scar tissue is created in a pattern to create a pathway for electrical impulses. This pathway disrupts and prevents irregular electrical signals that cause afib. Many patients opt to receive MAZE in conjunction with another open-heart procedure like a valve replacement or bypass (CABG). An appointment with a cardiovascular surgeon requires a referral from your cardiologist or primary care provider.
For questions or more information, call (615) 342-7310.
How it works:
- You will be placed under anesthesia, your surgeon will make a chest incision and you will be hooked up to a heart-lung machine.
- An energy source will flow through the pulmonary veins and create the "maze" of scar tissue in the upper heart chambers.
- The left atrial appendage (LAA) will be removed or clamped to prevent blood clots.
- The scar tissue will form, blocking electrical impulses that cause afib.
- Your Heart Team will closely monitor and partner with you to create a custom plan for recovery and rehabilitation.
