A video-assisted thoracoscopic technique to encircle the four pulmonary veins: a new surgical intervention for atrial fibrillation ablation.

Abstract

Video-assisted thoracoscopy is a feasible and safe approach for epicardial pulmonary vein ablation. This technique offers the option of surgery to a class of patients who are resistant to medical therapy but for whom the presence of LAF contraindicates the open chest approach.