Epicardial ultrasonic ablation of atrial fibrillation during concomitant cardiac surgery is a valid option in patients with ischemic heart disease.

Background: Surgical therapy of atrial fibrillation concomitant to coronary bypass grafting using epicardial Ultrasound technology was assessed after a minimum 6-month follow-up.

Methods And Results: A cohort of 98 consecutive patients with a mean age of 72+/-7.58 years and a primary diagnosis of ischemic heart disease had surgery for structural disease.

Ultrasonic cardiac ablation for atrial fibrillation during concomitant cardiac surgery: long-term clinical outcomes.

Background: Therapeutic ultrasound as an alternative to the maze procedure was evaluated in this large US experience. Safety and efficacy were assessed at 6-, 12-, and 18-month visits with systematic 24-hour Holter monitoring.

Methods: From February 2005 to February 2007, 220 patients were prospectively enrolled in a single center study, and among them 129 patients with concomitant cardiac surgery and at least 6-month follow-up were reviewed.