Atrial Fibrillation: Robotic Heart Surgery
What is Atrial fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation (AF or AFib) is the most common irregular heart rhythm in theUnited States. Atrial fibrillation is an abnormal heart rhythm originating inthe atria (top chambers of the heart). Instead of the impulse traveling in an orderly fashion through the heart, many impulses begin simultaneously and spread through the atria, causing a rapid anddisorganized heartbeat.
At one time, atrial fibrillation was thought to be a harmless annoyance. However, atrial fibrillation is now recognized as a dangerous condition. Atrial fibrillation doubles the risk of death. It also increases the risk of stroke five to seven times compared to a person without atrial fibrillation. In addition, atrial fibrillation may cause congestive heart failure and uncomfortable symptoms related to a rapid heart rate.
About the Cox-Maze Procedure (also known as the Maze Procedure)
The Cox-Maze procedure (also known as Maze procedure) is a surgical treatment foratrial fibrillation or atrial flutter.
Certain patients with isolated atrial fibrillation, especially continuous atrialfibrillation and/or enlarged atria, are candidates for the Maze procedure. The Maze procedure can treat the atrial fibrillation and restore the atria to amore normal size.
For more information about robotic surgery including finding a doctor or making a referral, please call 1-877-250-STJO.
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