left side ablation

[larry200zx]

Hi...new guy here. I've had problems with my heartrate for just over a year now. Have been diagnosed a-fib after an EP study. My problem is I have to have a left side ablation which requires putting a hole through the heart wall. Is anyone framiliar with this procedure? After researching on the web I'm scared and overwelmed.

[tom_h]

Transseptal puncture is a common procedure to access the left atrium.  My particular problem was located there, but instead of going directly to the puncture method, my EP probed the septal closure that forms during early development.  In my case, the septal closure didn't seal completely but resembles sliding doors.  He was able to thread the catheter thru the slot saving me from the healing process of the puncture.  This phenomonon occurs in about 2% of the population.

[claytex]

Dear Larry: Jerry is correct.  I had a heart ablation in july of 2010 and the EP told me with ablations for Afib they always have to punch a small hole in the inside wall of the heart to get to the other side.  He said it is just small enough to get the wire through and heals back in about 2 weeks... believe he said 2 weeks ...wasnt long.. My ablation worked fine, my heart rate is fine now .. no problems..I also agree with Jerry ... if you have a good EP and have the ablation at a good hospital with the most up to date equipment .. the chances of a sucessful ablation are about 75%...I also think alot of the success rate depends on your overall physical condition.. If you are in good physical shape and have no other health issues, personally I think the odds of a sucessful ablation are greater... I was 68 when I had the ablation and was in good physical condition for my age..I also found an EP who had done about 2000 ablations ...most of which were sucessful... It worked... Hope this helps Claytex

[Jerry_NJ]

I believe ablation for afib always requires gaining access to the left atrium.... hole as the catheter comes in to the right side.  Among ablations, this is the one with the most, though small, risk.  

So, all who have had ablations for afib can tell you how well it works.  Your doctor is in the best position to estimate risk/benefit numbers.  I'd not consider it with less than an 75% chance of success.  Ask too about risk.  Risk is a multifaceted subject and unwanted affects can range from rather minor to major with the major being the least likely or I'd assume the doctor would not recommend going forward.

Good luck,