Convergent Hybrid Procedure
A convergent hybrid procedure is used for the treatment of atrial fibrillation and uses a combination of catheter and surgical ablation techniques. It has been shown to be effective in treating atrial fibrillation, particularly in patients who have not responded to other treatments.
What to Expect
This procedure is usually conducted over two separate visits to the hospital.
- Stage 1: For the first part of the procedure, the patient undergoes an atrial fibrillation ablation on the inside of the heart. This is done by inserting a catheter through the femoral vein that is threaded up to the heart. The ablation will disrupt electrical signals that contribute to atrial fibrillation. Patients are typically discharged on the same day as the procedure.
- Stage 2: For the second part of the procedure, the patient returns to the hospital for a minimally invasive surgery. A small incision is made in the chest and an ablation device is used on the outside of the heart to disrupt even more electrical signals that contribute to atrial fibrillation. Patients are typically discharged two to three days later.