Maze procedure for atrial fibrillation

The maze procedure is offered for patients suffering from atrial fibrillation, a serious abnormality of the normal heart rhythm that affects a large population of patients. Usually, a cardiothoracic surgeon will perform a modified maze procedure in which radio frequency applicators are used to eliminate the abnormal heart rhythm. While most maze procedures are performed in conjunction with heart valve surgery, it is also possible to treat atrial fibrillation in patients having no heart valve disease.