maze procedure
Surgical treatment for atrial fibrillation using incisions or ablation to interrupt abnormal electrical pathways.
Full Definition
The maze procedure is a surgical intervention designed to treat atrial fibrillation by creating a pattern of incisions or ablation lines in the atrial myocardium to interrupt reentrant electrical circuits. The original 'cut-and-sew' technique has largely been replaced by energy-based ablation using radiofrequency, cryotherapy, or microwave energy. The procedure creates controlled scar tissue that blocks abnormal electrical conduction while preserving normal sinus rhythm pathways from the sinoatrial node to the atrioventricular node.
Usage
Usage note: Specify energy source used (RF, cryo, etc.) and extent (biatrial vs. left atrial only).
In Context
- "A biatrial maze procedure was performed using bipolar radiofrequency ablation." — Operative report
- "The patient remained in sinus rhythm six months after the maze procedure." — Follow-up note