AV Node ablation

Hi. I have had a pacemaker since 2011 as I have atrial fibrillation.
5 weeks ago I had AV node ablated. I am still having occasional fast pulse and ectopics and feel really uncomfortable when I go into A.fib. I realise av node ablation doesn't stop A.fib but I was expecting to feel more comfortable as I was told I would have a new lease of life. My appointment is on 10th Dec to see cardiologist. How long does it take for the heart to settle? I had three unsuccessful ablations And know it was hell for weeks after each one. Pacemaker set at 60 to 130 bpm. I feel hopeless at the moment. I would appreciate replies please.
Susan.

6 Comments

4 failed atrial ablations for me

by Dave H - 2015-11-16 11:11:05

After the 4th try, the Doc ablated my A_V Node back in May 2012. I'm a Warfarin user to protect against stroke. I had no issues - other than random PACS and PVC's after the PM implant. Current Electrophysiologist (one who is trained in the electrical workings of the heart) had decided to replace my Medtronic Consulta PM with a Medtronic VIVA PM/ICD this past Jan. I've noticed the occasional ectopic beats, but they were not bothersome. I'm a soon to be 70 year old, and I treadmill/walk 6-7 miles every day! I'm going to beat this PITA heart failure thing! I'm hoping you're seeing an EP, not just a run of the mill cardiologist.
Good Luck!!

--Dave--

A-V node ablation.

by Selwyn - 2015-11-17 03:11:30

It seems that some folk have good outcomes, as Dave, and some have continued symptoms. I note you say it was hell for "weeks after each ( ablation).

You may wish to join the forum:
http://atrialfibrillationblog.com/av-node-ablation-why-you-shouldnt-have-it/

though it does seem to be more negative than positive.

In general the out patient appointment time is a guide as to when you can expect the procedure to have seen to be settled.

Kind regards,
Selwyn

AV node ablation

by sunigirl - 2015-11-17 04:11:21

Hi Selwyn
Thanks for your reply . I have looked at the forum you suggested and yes it is negative. I live in hope.

Best Wishes
Susan

Dave - AV node ablation

by sunigirl - 2015-11-17 04:11:25

Hi Dave. Good news and well done. It's great to hear of success. Yes I am seeing an EP. Maybe my pacemaker needs adjusting and I'll be able to post that things are improving. Thank you.
Best Wishes
Susan

AV Node

by sunigirl - 2015-11-18 08:11:08

Hi Selwyn. Thank you so much for taking time to send a message which has increased hope for peace of mind and heart.
Very Best wishes
Susan

Good to live in hope

by Selwyn - 2015-11-18 09:11:33

Hi Susan,
It seems your hope has increased!
You may wish to consider some outcome studies:
"At the end of follow-up, quality-of-life scores in our study population were comparable with those of age- and gender- matched healthy control groups. No difference could be demonstrated for the study population at seven of the eight subscales of the SF-36. Quality-of-life questionnaire compared with the healthy controls. This in agreement with previous AV node ablation studies. Pharmacological rate-control approaches, as used in the major rate- vs. rhythm-control trials, are not able to improve quality of life of patients with permanent AF to the level of healthy controls.

It seems looking at large numbers of people having your procedure that you can expect an improved quality of life.

I think you are right to "live in hope"

Kind regards,
Selwyn

You know you're wired when...

You have a little piece of high-tech in your chest.

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