Doom and Gloom

So, long awaited trip to EP today, an eminent professor. It was a good meeting, however, he no longer does Ablations. He was honest and states that he no longer has the confidence to do them..as he nears retirement. His advice to me, I am in Persistent, almost at Permanent, forget any further CV. I have had one failed CV. The view of the UK NHS, is that they rarely work long term. Ablation, it would be PVI for me. He recommends do not do it, certainly not at the moment. What was interesting in his comments was how little is known, which I think we all can concur, about the condition, its cause, its effects, and cure, by the ''experts''. One man's view I know, but an interesting one. He was trying to tell me that it is so individual, that it is impossible for the 'experts' to concur a method of treatment. Therefore, rate control (not rhythm interestingly), is the goal, for me, through medication. If I kick and scream, about my quality of life, they may put me on the waiting list for ablation. But I am not considered suitable. The view is that AF begets AF, and once in Persistent./Permanent, very difficult to get out. Still mulling it all over.......appreciate any further thoughts

14 Replies

oldest • newest

orchardworker

3 years ago

My rule of thumb is I will know when I need to go for an ablation as my QOL will be at a level that signs me up itself. I am Lone PAF, so no experience of your circumstances.

In the meantime, I think there is some good advice to pick out from your Professor's comments. You don't often have the opportunity to hear views from an experienced EP, who has no axe to grind.

My cardiologist wanted me to postpone going to the EP, I insisted and he said remember if you go to a carpet salesman you are likely to buy a carpet. We were both right as the visit in one sense told me nothing new (he said ablation but only 70% success, a second likely) but did reinforce my determination to postpone an ablation and work on lifestyle changes. No regrets on that decision so far.

Good Luck either way.

dedeottie

My experience with my E.P. is that these ablation are not dished out like double glazing as they cost so much money. He had to put my case to the hospital board for approval and said he wouldn't have put me forward unless there was a good chance of success and unless I was otherwise in good health e.g. wieght, blood pressure e.t.c.

I felt that if it was being offered to me I ought to have it done as I may ultimately get to a point when my health was not so good and then I may not be given the chance.

My hospital is not a high frequency centre for ablation and I'm sure it is different in other health authorities. I live in Wales and am not able to choose to go to a centre of excellence in England.

It's a big decision for us to make and everyone has to come to their own conclusion after weighing up the pros and cons in our individual situations. X

You may also like...

Company

Product

Support