Ablation

[linc2u]

Going to have my first Ablation soon but rather worried. Have opted fora general anaesthetic . Just wondered if anyone has advice. Female lady 69

[BobD Volunteer]

Make sure that you prepare a bag with everything you might need for four hours after the procedure when you have to lay flat. LIp balm, a drinks bottle (squirty type). tissues, mobile phone,-- that sort of thing so that you can have drinks without trying to suck through a straw. You will get dry and dry lips from the GA.

It really is a non event frankly nowhere near as bad as dentistry and you will be well looked after.

Make sure that you have somebody to collect you from hospital and stay with you for the first few days. Prepare lots of light meals which you can freeze and nuke at will so you don't have to cook for a few days. My arrhythmia nurse told me "do nothing for the first week and not a lot more for the second " but then she did know me quite well by then and that my nothing is some people's busy.

Above all don't worry. You will be fine.

Bob

[jedimasterlincoln]

It is quite scary the first time (I've had two) but there are many many posts on here of people's feelings pre and post ablation to wade through (including mine).

It all has lots of useful information, stuff to look for, stuff to not worry about, well worth spending some time looking through then asking anything more specific that is bothering you.

I didn't have a GA with either of mine, though I did pass out both times on heavy sedation.

[Rellim296]

I think it's quite nice for us girls to pamper ourselves in advance so you know you are looking your best - pedicure, leg wax with (possibly too much information here) special attention to the bikini line, 'cos that's where they will be working. Have this a week in advance ideally. I didn't have quite enough notice but dashed off as soon as I knew I was on the list. Buy some paper knickers, although a pair will be provided. In case of any leaks from the puncture site a dark coloured dressing gown might be an idea too. Bob has mentioned almost everything else. A good book to read beforehand is a boon if there's an emergency and the wait is a long one. It's can be a stressful time, but I think getting to the cath lab is very reassuring as everything impresses with its technological sophistication. All the best!

[BobD Volunteer in reply to Rellim296]

I never had a leg wax! Damned brazillian was uncomfortable though. lol

[Rellim296 in reply to BobD]

I did say us girls, Bob!

[seasider18 in reply to BobD]

Was she a heavy girl?

[davegm]

Don't worry, its all routine to the medics. They are carrying out ablations on a daily basis.

I think you have done the right thing in opting for a GA, as I did. You will be wheeled into the Cath Lab, a bit of preparation, then the next thing you know you will be back in your room.

Best wishes for a successful procedure.

Dave

[seasider18]

Why did you opt for the general anaesthetic? You may be fearful of the procedure and any associated discomforts but generally anaesthetics are best avoided as we get older.