Which procedure is associated with the creation of a surgical "maze" in the heart?

The creation of a surgical "maze" in the heart is specifically associated with maze surgery, which is primarily performed to treat atrial fibrillation (AF). This surgical procedure involves creating a series of precise incisions within the atria, which form a "maze" pattern. The purpose of this maze is to interrupt the abnormal electrical pathways that contribute to the irregular heart rhythms seen in AF. By establishing this organized conduction pathway, the heart can restore a more normal rhythm.

Maze surgery can be performed as an open-heart procedure or as a minimally invasive technique, depending on the patient's condition and the surgeon's approach. The effectiveness of this procedure is notable, as it not only helps alleviate AF but also improves the overall functioning of the heart.

The other options, while related to various heart conditions and treatments, do not involve the specific creation of a maze within the heart. For instance, aortic valve replacement focuses on replacing a diseased valve rather than altering the electrical pathways, coronary angioplasty involves reopening narrowed arteries, and heart transplantation is the replacement of a failing heart rather than a maze reconstruction.