May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z Heart Disease The Maze Procedure for Heart Valve Replacement
The Maze Procedure for Heart Valve Replacement |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: My mom (78 y/o) is going in to have two valves replaced in her heart but they are also going to do a procedure called the "maze". Can you tell me the benifits and risks of this procedure? Dear Diane: The Maze procedure is done on patients who are undergoing heart valve replacement as well. The procedure is done to cure atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation is a type of irregular heartbeat. It increases the chance of developing a stroke among other life-threatening conditions. Given your mother’s age, it is likely that the she will undergo a special type of procedure called minimal invasive heart surgery. This means that small incisions will be made in the chest and special instruments utilized to perform the surgery. This reduces the pain and recovery period postoperatively. The Maze surgery is only done in individuals who are still having symptoms despite receiving optimal medications to control their atrial fibrillation As with all surgery, there are risks. The major risks associated with the maze procedure are fluid retention and the development of other types of irregular heartbeats. These usually resolve as the body heals. In some patients, atrial fibrillation masks other problems with the natural beating of the heart. When the atrial fibrillation is corrected, these conditions may become a problem and require the placement of an artificial pacemaker. It is important that you discuss all risk and benefits in detail with your mother’s surgeon. The information presented above represents only a portion of the information needed to make an informed decision. |
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| Last Updated ( Tuesday, 16 February 2010 ) |
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