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Avatar universal

Post ablation WPW

I had cardiac ablation for Wolff Parkinson White syndrome in 2004; it was successful and I was told I have no restrictions.  I have not any further incidents of rapid heart beat. However, occassionally I have palpitations (which I understand there is nothing that can be done for these).  I am going to undergo surgery with general anesthesia soon, and was wondering if anyone else has had general surgery post the ablation procedure.  I don't think there is anything to worry about, but was curious if anyone had any problems (or hopefully NOT had any problems)?
thanks....
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Avatar universal
I also had WPW and two ablations later I'm WPW free.  And I also have the occasional palpitations; I'm actually on an event monitor right now just to make sure they're benign.  Glad yours was a success as well.  I don't know about the anesthesia though...but if your doctor wasn't worried, there's probably no reason to be concerned.
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88793 tn?1290227177
I also got wpw and right bundle branch block when I first diagnosed.  After the ablation, I am now still having wpw pattern and left bundle branch block, sick sinus syndromes, A-fib and A-tachy and a TRAIN.......too complicated.  

I hope you are all going well and live free with wpw.
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Avatar universal
I am not sure which side the pathways were on (they actually found 2 pathways during the procedure).  Both were ablated successfully.  On my first EKG, prior to WPW diagnosis, I had a right bundle block.  I am not sure if this would indicate that the pathways were on the right side???  Sorry, I guess I didn't find out which side.  As for the experience, it went really well.  I remember it being a big decision because I really did not want to have a catheter procedure and there was no guarantee of success.  However, I decided it was worth it not to have to live worrying constantly about my heart rate soaring when I least expected it.  The procedure itself was a little weird since you are not completely out; I can remember bits and pieces of the doctor's conversaton while I was having the procedure (not much though).  Then you have to stay in recovery for several hours with weights on the catheter sites (on your legs).  It was worth it for me since I know longer have had any rapid heart rates.  Good luck with your procedure!
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Avatar universal
Glad to hear that you haven't had any tachycardia episodes since you procedure.
I'm going to have an ablation for WPW in 3 weeks. Was your extra pathway on your right or left side of the heart? How was your experience?  

Wish you luck with your future surgery
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187666 tn?1331173345
Good. It sounds like your heart is doing pretty well. My heart acts up every day so they didn't like that much. As for the anesthesiologist, you probably won't see him/her till the big day. Do mention your heart flutters so they can be prepared. Hope your surgery is not too serious and it all turns out well for you. Best wishes.
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Avatar universal
An occassional flutter, and it is rare.  I had an EKG about 6 weeks ago and it was normal.  At this point they have not suggested that I need to do anything, but I have not talked to the anesthesiologist.  I have made sure both my family doctor and the surgeon know about my history.  Thanks for all your help!
Helpful - 0
187666 tn?1331173345
I guess my first question is what do you mean by "palpitations?" An occasional flutter for a few seconds or a single heart hiccup, like a PVC? I recently had surgery (I've had 3 ablations in the past). Before this surgery I did have to take a stress test and wear an event monitor for 30 days.  Then my cardio wanted me to start on Diltiazem at least a week before the surgery and carry on with it after the surgery for at least a week (he's hoping I'll just stay on it but. . . .). He told me some anesthesia can trigger arrhythmias and since my heart is already jumpy (PVC's, PAC's and PSVT) they wanted to do what they could to keep my heart quiet. The surgery went smoothly and my heart didn't give them any surprises. Make sure you discuss this clearly with your surgeon/doctor before the surgery. They'll need to know exactly what kind of arrhythmias you're still having and then decide what to do.
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