Preliminary Experience of Hybrid Thoracoscopic Surgery and Catheter Ablation in Treating the Patients of Refractory Atrial Fibrillation / 中国循环杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective: To evaluate the safety and feasibility of hybrid thoracoscopic surgery and catheter ablation in treating the patients of long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) with preliminary experience. Methods: A total of 15 consecutive relevant patients treated in our hospital by hybrid thoracoscopic surgery and catheter ablation from 2014-04 to 2016-03 were studied. The average AF time was (4.0±3.9) years including 13 male. All patients received thoracoscopic surgical ablation including pulmonary vein isolation, left atrial (LA) posterior wall isolation, Waterston's groove Ganglionated plexi ablation by bipolar radiofrequency ablation clamp and LA appendage removal, Marshall ligament dividing. Then establishing LA 3D-modeling, based on LA 3D voltage mapping, catheter ablation was conducted to reinforce surgical ablation or modification in order to confirm bidirectional blocking. Meanwhile, LA ridge and mitral isthmus ablation was performed, some patients received LA anterior wall and tricuspid isthmus ablation. The patients were followed-up at 3, 6 and 12 months after the procedure. Results: 13 patients were restored to sinus rhythm after the procedure and no operative complications occurred. The average follow-up time was (12.1±11.5) months. 2 patients with recovered sinus rhythm had re-catheter ablation since atrial flutter at 3 months post-procedure and sinus rhythm was restored. The overall success rate was 86.7% (13/15), no patient had anti-arrhgthmia medication. Conclusion: Hybrid thoracoscopic ablation and catheter ablation have been a minimally invasive, safe and effective method in treating the patients of long-standing persistent AF.