Results of the Thoracoscopic Radiofrequency Epicardial Ablation with a Bipolar Electrode During Longstanding Persistent form of Atrial Fibrillation

Abstract

Thoracoscopic ablation using the ‘box lesion’ technique was performed using a bipolar radio frequency clamp. A total of 48 patients, including 38 men and 10 women, mean age 58 years (range 33 74). The mean duration of AF was 4 yrs (range 1.5 months 21), the mean size of the atrium 4.15 ± 0.9 cm (2.9-8.8 cm), mean LVEF was 57.7% (39 -73%). Mitral regurgitation of 1-2 degrees was present in 14 patients, EDV LV 147.7 ml (81-224). Primary catheter ablation was performed in 22 patients, where 5 of them (22,7%) were performed repeatedly. Resection of the left atrial appendage (LAA) during the operation was performed in 44 patients (91%). Input and output block was achieved in all patients. In the postoperative period, all patients were administered supporting antiarrhythmic therapy with amiodarone and β-blockers, anticoagulant therapy with warfarin or PLA for 6-12 months. The effectiveness of treatment was monitored by a cardiomonitor Reveal XT in the period 1, 3, 6, 12, 24 months after surgery, the mean follow-up length was 498 ± 19 days. Sinus rhythm was restored during surgery in all patients and remained until discharge.