Ablate AV Mode

[pzahn1]

I had Ablation done (51/2 Hrs.) July 7, 2010.  It did not work and now the Dr. is telling me that I should have the Pacemaker Ablate AV Mode.  What do you think.  I do not and will not have the Ablation done again.  I have been in a-fib ever since it was done.  What is your opnion about the Ablate AV Mode?  Please let me kno.

[ksig]

Well, pzahn1, having the AV Node ablated is a very serious procedure.  As you already know, you must have a pacer implanted.  I, too, have AFib.  I have had 4 ablations for AFib, each one holding AFib at bay more progressively, but not enough.  I also developed bradycardia between ablation 1 and 2 and had a pacer implanted.  Several years later (2009) I was still having way too much AFib even with medication therapy  so I was given the option to have the AV node ablated.  I have to admit, I had to think about it for several months as this procedure was permanent and there was no going back.  I had many sleepless nights with me thinking about it and dealing with the AFib.  You see, I FEEL every heart beat.  

After a wild run of AFib I decided to go ahead with the procedure and have been satisfied ever since.  It was a great decision for me.  Its been 18 mo since the procedure and I have not regretted it once.  I still have AFib but I CANNOT FEEL IT!  BOOYAH.  And 6 mo ago I had my second pacer implanted.  Living with a pacer has not slowed me down at all.  I do, however, have to have my pacer interrogated every three months.

As Bromley stated, you need help with making this decision.  Do go get a second or third opinion.  I did.  And it helped.

It is a tough decision and I wish you well.  

[cindy707]

My opinion is "listen to Bromley" on this one...........he gave you excellent advice and a pretty great opinion.  I couldn't have said it better.....

[pzahn1]

After having the ablation, the rapid heart (A-Fib) is more frequent than ever and lasting
up to 12 hrs.  Is that normal?

[Bromley]

I am really sorry to hear about this. Without more information its really hard to help, but in this situation, I would definitely consider getting a second opinion from a very well qualified doctor. This is a life altering decision, and a technically challenging one to boot, so you are going to need the help.  Feel free to get as many second opinions from excellent doctors as you would like, and I would try to ask a lot of questions in the process so that you can gain a sound perspective on the decision you have.

regards,
Bromley

[PikaPika88]

If you don't mind.... How old are you now?  If you have your AV node ablated, you will be a pacemaker dependent.