What to Expect After Surgery

If you are scheduled to have the Mini-Maze procedure, then your doctor already has talked to you about what you can expect. Experience to date indicates that the Mini-Maze surgery eliminates atrial fibrillation in more than 85 percent of patients who undergo the surgery.

Because Mini-Maze is a minimally invasive procedure by design, there are only small incisions and no division of bones or spreading of ribs. This significantly reduces recovery time and leaves just minor scarring. Patients benefit in many ways that have proven the Mini-Maze a better option than traditional open surgery.

• Smaller incisions and less scarring (see Figure 1)
• Reduced recovery time
• Less pain and discomfort
• Shorter hospital stay
• Reduced risk of infection
• Fewer complications
• Fewer side effects
• Less blood loss
• Faster return to daily activities

Your healing will begin in the recovery room after the surgery and continue even after you return home. As with any other surgery, results, treatments and the healing process will vary from patient to patient, depending on many factors. The following is a brief list of things you can expect once the surgery is complete.

• Sleep difficulty. Sleeping may be difficult, because getting comfortable might be challenging.
• Energy. A rapid return to normal energy and ability to perform every day activities is not realistic. Usually, it will take a couple of weeks before your energy and abilities return.
• Activity. You will be able to get up and walk soon after surgery, while still in the hospital. The first week, most patients can take part in walking, stretching or light lifting. It may be a while before you can drive. You should continue to delay driving while on pain medication.
• Pain and discomfort. Most patients experience some pain, including an aching feeling in the shoulders, back or sides of chest, which may be alleviated by a heating pad. Pain/aching should subside within several weeks.
• Medication. You also may be placed on anticoagulation and pain medication. Medications will vary depending on individual needs.
• Follow up visits. Once you are home, you will continue to have regular visits with your healthcare team (surgeon, electrophysiologist or cardiologist). Tests such as a heart monitor also will be performed.

This is an overall picture of a patient's condition following the Mini-Maze procedure. Please talk to your doctor for more information and for answers to any questions or concerns.

This information is intended for use as guidelines only. You must speak with your doctor regarding specific instructions and your individualized care.