Release date: 2007-04-24

A breakthrough in the treatment of atrial fibrillation has given doctors a more efficient and effective option for patients. Researchers at the University of Washington School of Medicine have introduced a new technique called the Cox-Maze IV procedure, which significantly reduces the time and complexity of traditional surgical approaches. This innovation is seen as a major improvement over the previous Cox-Maze III method, which involved cutting and suturing heart tissue to create scar lines that help restore normal heart rhythm. Dr. Ralph Damiano Jr., director of cardiac surgery at the university, explains that the new procedure uses a clamp-like device that delivers radiofrequency (RF) energy to heat and ablate heart tissue. This allows surgeons to create precise ablation lines without the need for extensive cutting and stitching, making the operation faster and safer. "This technology simplifies the Cox-Maze surgery and makes it more accessible," he said. "We are no longer limiting its use to a few selected patients — we now recommend it for all individuals with atrial fibrillation who are undergoing other cardiac procedures." The original Cox-Maze procedure was developed in 1987 and has long been considered one of the most effective treatments for atrial fibrillation. However, its complexity limited its widespread use. The latest clinical study published in the February issue of the American Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery showed that the Cox-Maze IV procedure is just as effective as its predecessor but takes only about one-third of the time to complete. Additionally, the new method reduces the risk of bleeding and improves overall safety. Atrial fibrillation affects over 2.2 million people in the United States, causing symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and palpitations. It also increases the risk of stroke and mortality. While medications can manage symptoms and reduce clotting risks, they do not offer a cure. In contrast, the Cox-Maze IV procedure provides a long-term solution by addressing the root cause of the condition. Dr. Damiano emphasized that their recent study was unique because it carefully matched patients based on age, gender, and heart health, ensuring a fair comparison between the new procedure and the older Cox-Maze III method. "This is the first study to directly compare the effectiveness of the new ablation device with the traditional approach," he noted. "The results are very promising, and we are now exclusively using the Cox-Maze IV technique." - China Medical Newspaper

Roundness Tester

Roundness tester is a length measuring tool for measuring roundness using the rotary axis method. The roundness meter is a measuring tool for measuring the roundness error of the workpiece using the rotary axis method. Roundness tester is divided into two types: sensor rotary type and workbench rotary type. During measurement, the measured part is installed concentrically with the precision shaft system, and the precision shaft is attached with an inductive length sensor or a workbench for precise circular motion. It is composed of sensor, amplifier, filter and output device of the instrument. If the instrument is equipped with a computer, the computer is also included in the system.Roundness Tester