CryoMaze

The minimally invasive CryoMaze treatment uses cryoablation (freezing energy) to create precise lines of scar tissue in the heart to block abnormal electrical signals that cause irregular heart rhythms.

Unlike traditional open-heart surgery, this method uses small keyhole incisions, leading to a less invasive and safer treatment option for eligible patients. Left atrial appendage closure can be performed as part of a MAZE procedure to help reduce the risk of stroke in people with atrial fibrillation.

• Safer, less traumatic
• Lower infection rates
• Reduced blood loss
• Reduced recovery time

• Patients with AF who are already undergoing minimally invasive mitral or tricuspid valve surgery. AF is common in these patients.
• Individuals who would benefit from avoiding a full open-chest surgery.
• Patients without anatomical constraints that would require sternotomy.
• Those whose surgeons determine that keyhole access provides adequate visibility and reach.

Patients undergoing minimally invasive CryoMaze can expect:

Before the Procedure

• Assessment by a cardiologist/electrophysiologist.
• Imaging or electrophysiological studies to map the arrhythmia.

During the Procedure

• Performed through small incisions, without opening the sternum.
• Cryoablation lines are created on the atria to restore normal rhythm.
• Usually performed under general anaesthesia.

After the Procedure

• Shorter hospital stay compared to open-heart surgery.
• Faster mobilisation and return to daily activities.
• Monitoring for heart rhythm stability over weeks to months.

Although minimally invasive, risks may still include:

• Bleeding or infection at incision sites
• Temporary rhythm disturbances
• Need for repeat ablation if Atrial Fibrillation (AF) recurs
• Injury to nearby heart structures or vessels (rarely)
• Risks associated with general anaesthesia

These risks are generally lower than traditional surgical procedures due to the small incisions and reduced trauma.

Following the procedure, patients are still encouraged to adopt heart-healthy habits to reduce AF recurrence.

Patients are strongly recommended to have a low-sodium diet, quit smoking, limit alcohol and caffeine consumption, maintain a healthy weight, manage stress, and engage in regular gentle exercise as part of your everyday lifestyle.

Through such lifestyle changes, not only will your medical symptoms reduce over time, quality of life will also be improved.

Home care advice: Please monitor your weight, avoid salty foods, and track your symptoms. If you experience any abnormalities in your symptoms, please contact your care team immediately.

You will be prescribed a combination of drugs such as:

• Antiarrhythmic drugs - to stabilise heart rhythm post-procedure
• Anticoagulants - to reduce stroke risk (especially if AF had been long-standing)
• Rate-control medications (if rhythm issues persist)

Home care advice: Most people take multiple medications daily. Do note to take your medications on time and track any side effects. Please contact your care team if you experience new side effects, worsening symptoms, or missed doses.