Effect of Left Atrial Volume Reduction with Maze Operation on Sinus Conversion and Recovery of Left Atrial Transport Function / 대한흉부외과학회지

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The Maze procedure considered the most effective method of treatment for atrial fibrillation. However, the sinus conversion rates decreased due to several factors, especially enlarged left atrium. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Maze procedure with left atrial volume reduction plasty on rheumatic mitral valve disease. MATERIAL AND METHOD: From December of 2001 to July of 2004, 45 patients received mitral valve and Maze operation. The patients were placed in either group 1 or group 2, based on the left atrial volume reduction plasty. The presence and onset of sinus rhythm and the incidence of trans mitral A waves were monitored during the postoperative 7 days and throughout the follow up period of 3 and 6 months. Mean follow up periods were 15.8 10.1 months in group 1 and 6.1+/-2.7 months in group 2. RESULT: The sinus onset were 9.88+/-12.2 days in group 1, and 1+/-3.6 days in group 2 (p<0.01). The sinus conversion rates in the group 1 and 2 were 65%, 75% (p=0.07) in the postoperative 7 days, 70.5%, 100% (p<0.01) at postoperative 3 months, and 93%, 100% (p<0.01) at postoperative 6 months, respectively. The wave detection rates in the postoperative 7 days were 31.2% and 63.6%, and continued to improve over time to 83.3% and 100% by 6months, respectively. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that Maze procedure with left atrial volume reduction plasty is effective for inducing sinus rhythm and for restoring left atrial contractile function after concomitant rheumatic mitral valve surgery. However further follow up of this patients for long time is necessary.