The Maze procedure is a heart operation that treats atrial fibrillation, an irregular rhythm that begins in the upper chambers of the heart. The surgeon creates a pattern of small scars in the atria, using cuts and stitches or radiofrequency or cryo energy. The scars block the stray electrical signals and guide the heartbeat along a controlled path.

Patients looking for a cardiologist in Mumbai at Apex are assessed with ECG, rhythm monitoring and echocardiography. The Maze procedure is usually advised when atrial fibrillation persists despite medicines or ablation, and most often when a patient needs open-heart surgery for another reason, such as mitral valve disease or bypass surgery. Surgeons commonly close or remove the left atrial appendage during the same operation to reduce stroke risk.

The operation is done under general anaesthesia, with the heart stopped and a heart-lung machine, or, in minimally invasive versions, on a beating heart. Patients stay in intensive care at first and then in hospital for about a week. Blood thinners and rhythm medicines may continue for a few months while the atria heal, and the rhythm is checked at follow-up.

How the Procedure Can Help

It can restore a regular rhythm in many patients, which relieves palpitations and may lower the long-term risk of stroke.

Risks and Considerations

Risks include bleeding, infection, stroke, kidney problems, the need for a pacemaker and return of atrial fibrillation. Fever, chest pain, breathlessness, fainting, or sudden weakness afterwards requires urgent review.