An experimental sheep model used to develop an ablation procedure for chronic atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is the most common form of serious arrhythmia in humans. The therapeutic options offered are medical, surgical, and interventional. The surgical approach is justified in cases of atrial fibrillation already subjected to cardiac surgery for an associated organic heart disease such as a valvular or ischemic disease. A minimally invasive surgical approach is needed to extend the possibility of surgical treatment to patients with lone atrial fibrillation and those who cannot be treated by interventional procedures. This study aimed to use sheep as an experimental model in developing a minimally invasive surgical procedure for chronic atrial fibrillation therapy in humans. Methods: The investigation was conducted with 20 animals using a video-assisted thoracoscopic approach, in which a flexible microwave energy ablating probe was positioned on the epicardial surface encircling the pulmonary veins. Results: In 10 of the 20 animals, it was possible to encircle the pulmonary veins using the thoracoscopic approach in less than 3 h without major complications. Conclusion: The epicardial ablation procedure using the thoracoscopic approach is feasible, safe, and reproducible.