Mid-term results of the 'hybrid maze': a combination of bipolar radiofrequency and cryoablation for surgical treatment of atrial fibrillation.

Background And Aim Of The Study: Although the use of new sources of energy for the ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) has simplified the procedure, concerns have been expressed with regard to the safety and efficacy of the various devices. Herein are described the results of a technique using a combination of bipolar radiofrequency (RF) and cryoablation.

Methods: Between February 2004 and August 2005, the combined procedure was used on 60 patients, 32 of whom (54%) had persistent AF, and 28 (46%) permanent AF.