Cox Maze Procedure

The Cox Maze procedure is a complex procedure to treat atrial fibrillation. It is named for Dr. James Cox, who pioneered the treatment method. He used a complicated "maze" of incisions on the atria (upper chambers) of the heart to stop the erratic heartbeat. St. Joseph's Hospital was one of the first in the country to treat atrial fibrillation with the minimally invasive MicroMaze technique.

Cox Maze Procedure: Who is a Candidate?

You may be a candidate for the Cox Maze procedure if you have:

  • Continuous (nonstop) atrial fibrillation
  • Enlarged atria (the upper chambers of the heart)
  • Had a previous failed catheter ablation procedure

The Cox Maze Surgical Procedure

This procedure can treat the atrial fibrillation and restore the atria to a more normal size. During the procedure:

  • We create precise incisions in the right and left atria to interrupt the abnormal electrical impulses causing the AFIB.
  • When the incisions heal, the scar tissue blocks the erratic impulses, restoring your regular heart rhythm.

To learn more about this procedure, read our patient-friendly brochure, Cox Maze Surgical Procedure.

Contact Us

For more information: (813) 877-2342.