Hybrid AFib Therapy

Hybrid therapy for atrial fibrillation is a two-step treatment approach that combines both surgical and catheter-based techniques. In a staged approach, the cardiac surgeons perform an ablation procedure which addresses the electrical circuits on the outside posterior left atrium. This is performed through a minimally invasive incision just under the xiphoid (solar plexus). The electrophysiologist will then do an inside-of-the-heart regular ablation procedure addressing the other areas towards the front of the left atrium.

A. Comprehensive treatment: Atrial fibrillation can be a complex and challenging condition to treat, especially when it involves multiple triggers or coexisting structural heart issues. Hybrid therapy allows for a comprehensive treatment strategy by combining the expertise of both cardiac surgeons and electrophysiologists. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that all aspects of the condition are addressed, potentially leading to better outcomes. B. Individualized treatment: Atrial fibrillation can manifest in different ways and have varying underlying causes in different patients. Hybrid therapy allows for a tailored treatment plan that takes into account the specific needs of each patient. The combination of surgical and catheter-based techniques provides flexibility in addressing the unique characteristics of the patients condition. C. Enhanced success rates: By combining surgical and catheter-based approaches, hybrid therapy aims to improve success rates in treating atrial fibrillation. Minimally invasive surgical portion allows for a wider area of ablation to the back wall of the left atrium. This area is typically challenging for the electrophysiologist to aggressively address because there is risk of damaging the esophagus. The synergy between the two approaches results in more effective treatment outcomes. D. Higher success in complex cases: Atrial fibrillation can be more challenging to treat when it coexists with other heart conditions, such as valvular disease or coronary artery disease. Hybrid therapy offers an effective solution for such complex cases by combining different treatment modalities and addressing multiple issues simultaneously. E. Left atrial appendage exclusion: The surgeons are able to clip the left atrial appendage which potentially allows patients to finally come off blood thinner! This is probably one of the major advantages of this combined approach.

Sometimes the effects can be within a couple of weeks other times the healing and inflammation recovery can take 8-12 weeks. Throughout, Dr. Beshai will monitor very closely your progress to ensure that your recovery is moving along in the right direction.

After the surgical procedure, you’ll stay at the hospital for approximately two nights. You will most likely be back to work within a week or so. You can likely return to your normal activities within a few weeks.

You may be a good candidate for hybrid AF therapy if you have long-term atrial fibrillation, have heart chambers that are too large for standard ablation, had an unsuccessful standard or catheter ablation, or have unsuccessfully tried medications and other treatments.

Your risk of stroke with atrial fibrillation is dependent on various factors including heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, age, history of prior stroke, and gender. The surgeons will evaluate whether or not they are able to clip the left atrial appendage which potentially allows patients to finally come off blood thinner! This is probably one of the major advantages of this combined approach.