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Figure 1 Drawing of the left atrium (LA) in a postero-anterior view with the radiofrequency energy-induced left atrial linear lesions (dense black lines) for treatment of atrial fibrillation. The first line extended from the mitral annulus (MA) to the left lower pulmonary vein (LLPV). The second line connected the LLPV and the left upper pulmonary vein (LUPV) orifices. From there, a third line coupled the left and the right pulmonary veins. Then the right upper pulmonary vein (RUPV) and right lower pulmonary vein (RLPV) orifices were connected. Care was taken to advance the tip of the ablation probe only a few millimeters inside the funnel-shaped parts of the pulmonary veins. Finally, the line at the LA roof was connected to the surgical incision to prevent "incisional re-entry." The dotted line indicates the LA incision. IVC = inferior vena cava; LAA = left atrial appendage; SVC = superior vena cava.