[Clinical efficacy of endoscopic epicardial microwave ablation for isolated atrial fibrillation].
OBJECTIVE
To assess the efficacy of endoscopic epicardial microwave ablation, a new completely endoscopic technique, for isolated atrial fibrillation (AF).


METHODS
From July to October of 2004, 5 patients with isolated permanent AF underwent this procedure. We performed epicardial microwave ablation using FLEX10 probe under the guide of VasoView 5 endoscope. The probe was placed around left and right pulmonary vein orifices, the microwave application was set 65 W/90 s, and a continuous ablation line was obtained encircling the pulmonary veins. Echocardiography and electrocardiography were carried out in all patients before and after operation.


RESULTS
Five patients received electrical conversion after ablation. Average ablation time was 35.0 min and average procedure time was 2.5 h without any procedure-related complications. At the 3-month, 6-month and 12-month follow-up, 4 patients (80%) were in sinus rhythm, associated with a reduced left atrial diameter and an improved cardiac function.


CONCLUSIONS
Endoscopic epicardial microwave ablation for isolated atrial fibrillation appears to be safe and effective.
Department of Cardiology, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.
Biao
B
Yuan
Sheng
S
Zhao
Zhong
Z
Zhao
Chen-jun
CJ
Huang
Hong-jun
HJ
Jiang
Qi-jun
QJ
Shan
Ke-jiang
KJ
Cao
D000328:Adult; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000601:surgery*; D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000379:methods*; D004724:Endoscopy; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008872:Microwaves / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008875:Middle Aged; D016896:Treatment Outcome