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.
Conclusion: Endoscopic epicardial microwave ablation for isolated atrial fibrillation appears to be safe and effective.