During a Maze Surgical Procedure
The surgery begins with general anesthesia. Once the anesthesia takes effect and the patient is intubated (breathing with the assistance of a machine), the surgeon can begin by making a sternal incision, an incision over the sternum (breastbone). The sternum is cut into two parts using a special saw, splitting the bone vertically.
The surgeon can use several tools at this point to scar the unwanted pathways that conduct the electrical impulses of the heart, such as a scalpel, or a very hot or a very cold instrument.
Once the surgeon determines that all of the pathways have been scarred, the sternum, or breastbone, is closed and using sterile surgical wire, braced together so that it can heal properly. In some cases, small incisions may be made under the breast area, and chest tubes are inserted to remove any blood that may accumulate around the heart. The tubes are connected to a sterile collection device so that blood output can be measured, or in some cases, the blood can be given back to the patient after the surgery.
