Surgical Management of Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a predominant arrhythmia, posing challenges due to its association with increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare resource demands. Recently, the surgical management of AF has witnessed significant advancements with the rise of minimally invasive and hybrid techniques, extending beyond conventional open surgical methods. Particularly for patients with non-paroxysmal AF, surgical interventions have gained prominence as catheter-based ablation may lack the required durability. Studies continue to explore the benefits of these novel surgical approaches, reinforcing the necessity for further research in optimizing patient care.

This Research Topic aims to delve into the contemporary approaches to AF management, with an emphasis on the roles of minimally invasive and hybrid methods, while adopting a multidisciplinary lens. By dissecting various components such as lesion sets, alternative energy sources, left atrial appendage occlusion, and the synergy with catheter-based treatment, this collection seeks to illuminate the advancements in rhythm control, stroke prevention, and improving patient longevity. The objective is to foster comprehensive discourse on the evolving surgical modalities and their potential to transform clinical outcomes in AF patients.

The scope of this Research Topic includes an exploration of both the range and limitations in surgical management of AF. This includes a focus on modern advancements in procedure techniques, patient selection processes, and long-term outcome evaluations. We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

-Minimally invasive surgical ablation: techniques, safety, and clinical outcomes
-Management challenges and tailored strategies for non-paroxysmal AF
-Integration of surgical ablation during concurrent procedures, like valve or coronary surgery
-Hybrid and multidisciplinary strategies combining surgery with catheter ablation
-Perspectives on left atrial appendage occlusion in stroke prevention
-Electrophysiological aspects: lesion sets, mapping, and the durability of conduction block
-Comparative effectiveness of energy sources such as radiofrequency and cryoablation
-Criteria for patient selection and risk stratification in surgical approaches
-Evaluation of long-term outcomes: rhythm control, stroke reduction, quality of life, and survival
-Future advancements: new technologies, robotics, imaging guidance, and personalized surgical approaches for AF

We also encourage contributions across various types of articles, including original research, reviews, and case studies.