A completely endoscopic approach to microwave ablation for atrial fibrillation.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Surgical therapy for atrial fibrillation is extremely effective but not widely applied. Minimally invasive methods may be more attractive. We report a case of complete pulmonary vein isolation performed entirely through a thoracoscopic approach. METHODS: A 74-year-old woman with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation underwent a microwave ablation procedure using 3 access ports in the right pleural space and 3 access ports through the left pleural space. RESULTS: After the 3-hour procedure the patient was extubated in the operating room and discharged home in sinus rhythm on the second postoperative day. CONCLUSIONS: Endoscopic pulmonary vein isolation is a safe and effective procedure that may be applied to a wide variety of patients.