Combining expertise: The best of two worlds
The minimally invasive hybrid ablation procedure combines the expertise and technologies of electrophysiology and cardiac surgery. Hybrid ablation is made of two treatment strategies: Electrophysiological examination and treatment with the catheter from the inside, and surgical ablation and left atrial appendage closure from the outside. Recent studies show that the combination of both methods significantly improves outcomes in complex, persistent atrial fibrillation cases. The procedure is offered in a single session in the hybrid operating room or in two sessions with an interval offered by two different specialists.
The minimally invasive hybrid ablation procedure combines the expertise and technologies of electrophysiology and cardiac surgery into one procedure. Hybrid ablation combines two treatment strategies:
From inside (Endocardial) - Cardiology:
Electrophysiological examination and treatment with catheter ablation
From the outside (Epicardial) - Cardiac Surgery:
Surgical ablation with LAA Closure
The individual situation decides whether surgical or non-surgical intervention is performed first. Often the originally planned second interventions are no longer necessary.
Electrophysiology and heart surgery
At Swiss Ablation, we do a "teamwork" between the electrophysiologist and the heart surgeon which enables this range of therapies. We recommend the combination of 3D mapping techniques (display of the ECG in three dimensions by measurements in the heart), epicardial ablation (on the heart surface) and left atrial appendage closure as the best therapy for patients with complex atrial fibrillation. Before the intervention, the therapy combination between the electrophysiologist and the cardiac surgeon is discussed in detail and implemented as a HeartTeam decision in accordance with the latest guidelines. This is unique in Switzerland.
Do you have a finding and would like a second opinion or are you not sure whether you need hybrid ablation? One of our specialists will be happy to take the time for a consultation.
Target population or hybrid approach
The hybrid procedure is particularly indicated in patients with long-standing atrial fibrillation, enlarged left atria, long standing hypertension or in those who the catheter therapy was unsuccessful. Especially complex situations like atypical atrial flutter can be treated with a hybrid procedure.
Advantages and results of hybrid treatment
Our experience shows, that one year after treatment, most patients remain in normal sinus rhythm even without medications.
There are several ways to do a hybrid procedure. We make a so-called "staged hybrid". First, surgical ablation is performed, which consists of epicardial ablations. These ablations target the pulmonary veins, the interatrial septum and many other places where extra pulmonary triggers can be identified. But most importantly the left atrial appendage is excluded and electrically isolated. In a second procedure, catheter ablation is performed, if necessary, to close any gaps after surgery. Hybrid ablations in persistent atrial fibrillation provide a success rate of over 90% with a very significant increase in quality of life (QOL).
Summary
There are different ways to perform a hybrid intervention for atrial fibrillation, we advocate the so-called "staged hybrid" concept. This means that electrophysiological and surgical interventions are performed separately in time and only when needed. This leads to an avoidance of unnecessary ablations and thus also increases long-term safety for patients without reducing effectiveness. The focus is on treating the patient as effectively as necessary and as gently as possible.