recent question about av node ablation

[thobbs]

I recently ask a question concerning av node ablation.  The one where my mom had a 24 halter monitor done.
the question was answered just a while ago.  The other thing i failed to mention was that my mom has been on a medication, and the doctor told her that because through looking at the notes of the last time she had her pacemaker checked it showed her heart had been out of rythm 81% of the time, so he said the medication was not helping her and he said that the up the dosage could cause problems with her liver , thyroid and eyes.  Sorry i do not have the name of the medication, I know it starts withe a A (the generic name). This is why he recommended the av node ablation and said let him do the halter monitor and then he would tell her for sure what he thougt. What is your thoughts on her just having the pacemaker change out first and seeing if that could make her feel better.
I appreciate so much for answering my previous question.  It helped me lots.  
Thanks so much
thobbs

[ksig]

In March 09 I had an AV node ablation because my pacer and meds could not control my AFib.  (I had had a pacer for two years at the time and was on a boatload of arrhythmia meds.) It was a very major decision for me and my QOL was deteriorating.  It was hard for me to come to terms with a small computer and battery keeping me going.  No longer was I going to run on my own steam.  I was in AFib for hours on end and felt terrible.  After the ablation, I was taken off all meds except for coumadin and I felt great and still do.  The AFib is not gone but it is controlled as my HR does not spike as it used to.  I love being off the arrhythmia meds.  I now am diligent in keeping my appointments for having my pacer interrogated to make sure it is doing it job... keeping me going as I am paced at 100%.  This was a good move for me.  
  
The holter will give the doc more information about your mom's HR and rhythm.  At that point, you will have vital info to make an informed decision.  If your mom needs to be paced at 81%, changing out of the pacer will not solve the problem.

The decision is not an easy one.  I know as I had to make it.

Good luck to you.
ksig

[Jerry_NJ]

Was the l "A" medication: Amiodarone?

If yes, that is the most powerful stuff that I know of and I am not surprised that it is handled with the highest respect and caution.

Sounds to me like the pacemaker alone can not control the HR, the the ablation consideration...the AV Node is still exercising too much control on the HR.  My guess, I don't have any personal experience/knowledge.