Hybrid Surgical Catheter Ablation

 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.