Surgical treatment of atrial fibrillation

This review investigates that atrial fibrillation (AFIB) is affecting a large and increasing number of patients. The underlying pathophysiological process is not yet fully understood. Minimal invasive surgical ablation offered to some patients has a high success rate, long durability, and minimal risk. In patients with concomitant heart surgery, the benefit also has a prognostic effect and is recommended in cardiac surgery guidelines. Referral to a thoracic surgical centre should be considered for patients with symptomatic AF not responding to conventional therapy.