Dr. Gloria Wu interviewed Dr. Paul Wang from Stanford
University School of Medicine regarding hybrid surgical catheter
ablation for treating atrial fibrillation. This innovative approach
involves collaboration between cardiac surgeons and
electrophysiologists. By combining surgical intervention outside
the heart with catheter ablation inside, the treatment aims to
achieve superior outcomes compared to catheter ablation alone.
Initial studies, including a pivotal trial, have shown promising
results, demonstrating the potential for improved efficacy in
managing atrial fibrillation. Ongoing research is underway to
further refine the benefits of this dual approach and identify the
specific patient populations that would benefit most from it.
Hybrid surgical catheter ablation combines the expertise of
cardiac surgeons and electrophysiologists to treat complex cases of
atrial fibrillation (AF). This innovative approach integrates
minimally invasive surgical techniques with catheter-based
procedures to achieve comprehensive and durable rhythm control.
Typically performed in a hybrid operating room, the procedure
involves a collaborative effort between the surgical team, who
create epicardial lesions on the outside of the heart, and the
electrophysiologists, who perform endocardial ablation from within
the heart's chambers using catheters. By targeting both the inside
and outside of the heart, hybrid ablation aims to eliminate the
sources of abnormal electrical signals that trigger AF while
minimizing procedural risks and maximizing long-term success rates.
This multidisciplinary approach represents a promising advancement
in the treatment of AF, offering a tailored and effective solution
for patients with persistent or longstanding persistent atrial
fibrillation.