I have had afib for 4 years before it became obvious that drugs were not my solution. I had the catheter ablation first, and although it improved my ability to walk and breathe at the same time, it was not a total solution. because I also have distolic disfuntion, my cadio doc and ep both recommended an av node ablation and replacing my 2 wire pacemaker with a 3 wire. that meant I was totally dependant on the pacemaker for initializing each heart beat. It has only been 4 weeks since the procedure but I already am feeling 75% (at least) better. the pacemaker technician says it will get even better as my heart heals from the procedure and gets used to being told what to do by the pacemaker.
Again, it has only been 4 weeks, but I am not sorry that I took this drastic step. I am 76 and have always led an active life. I am ready to do it again.