Surgical Treatments for Atrial Fibrillation

This trial compares three surgical methods for treating atrial fibrillation, an irregular heartbeat. Participants will undergo one of three procedures: Cox-Maze IV, Tampa 2, or EnCompass ablation (a type of atrial fibrillation ablation). Each procedure uses specific techniques to create lesions (tissue scarring) around heart structures to help restore normal rhythm. This trial targets individuals with atrial fibrillation requiring surgery who are already scheduled for heart surgery using a sternotomy (chest opening) with a heart-lung machine. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to valuable research that may enhance surgical options for atrial fibrillation.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research shows that the surgical ablation procedures—EnCompass, Tampa 2, and Cox-Maze IV—are generally safe.

For the EnCompass procedure, studies have found a few rare cases of minor nerve injury, but these were temporary. Most patients left the hospital without major problems.

The Tampa 2 procedure is designed to be simple and effective. Reports suggest it works as well as or better than the Cox-Maze IV. Recent studies found no issues with the devices used.

The Cox-Maze IV procedure has been tested for many years and is known for keeping the heart rhythm steady. Long-term studies have not found any major safety concerns.

Researchers are excited about these surgical treatments for atrial fibrillation because they offer new ways to manage this heart rhythm disorder. Unlike standard treatments like medication, catheter ablation, or electrical cardioversion, these surgical techniques create precise lesions around the heart's structures. The Encompass Alone approach focuses on isolating the pulmonary vein openings, while Tampa 2 and Cox-Maze IV add additional lesion paths to target different areas of the heart, potentially increasing effectiveness. These methods aim to improve the precision and outcomes of atrial fibrillation treatment by directly modifying the heart's electrical pathways, which could lead to better long-term results and fewer complications than current options.

This trial will compare different surgical treatments for atrial fibrillation. Research has shown that the Cox-Maze IV procedure, one of the treatments in this trial, effectively treats atrial fibrillation, especially in patients with a consistent form of this condition. It maintains a high success rate and helps sustain a normal heart rhythm over the long term.

Another treatment option in this trial is the Tampa 2 approach. Early results from previous studies are encouraging, showing that patients who do not respond well to medications have experienced a better quality of life and significant relief from atrial fibrillation.