Meta-analysis of clinical outcomes of maze-related surgical procedures for medically refractory atrial fibrillation

Although maze-related surgical procedures have shown success at eliminating atrial fibrillation, published controlled studies have generally been too small to detect clinically significant differences in morbidity and mortality. We pooled available studies to determine whether a simultaneous maze procedure reduces the risk of stroke or death in patients with chronic or paroxysmal atrial fibrillation who receive mitral valve surgery. Secondary outcomes included post-operative bleeding and need for pacemaker.