Ablation

[123Abc123]

Lots of followers of this site have the ablation procedure. When I was first diagnosed, the consultant said that this was a possible option in the future if necessary. I was wondering what sort of time scale between diagnosis and the procedure this tends to be for people.

[Hidden]

Hi ABC....its a bit like how long is a piece of string. Some say, if it can done in less than 3 months, check the credentials of the EP!! The waiting times vary enormously area by area. I was told to expect a wait from between 9 to 12 months, but in the event, I was offerred a cancellation slot and because INR was not an issue, I only waited just over 4 months. If you decide to go ahead with an ablation and you are taking a NOAC as opposed to warfarin, it might be a good idea to make the scheduling team aware as that may mprove your chances in the event of a cancellation.....all the best, John

[BobD Volunteer]

Most EP I think agree that early intervention is best and has a far greater chance of long term efficacy. In UK NICE guidelines used to say that you had to have failed on two drug regimes before being offered ablation but that seems to have been dropped now. I think most people prevaricate far too long even when offered but it is a very personal choice.

[123Abc123]

Thanks all. Ablation hasn't actually been suggested but as my medication is currently doing a good job I guess for the time being having the process isn't on the cards. Something to look forward to perhaps!

[RexH in reply to 123Abc123]

I am in Australia, and the specialist tried me on sotolol, bad reaction, do booked me in a month later for ablation. Would have been sooner except had to wait for me to be on pradaxa anticoagulant for a month before he could do it.

Pleased you are able to take the beta blocker

[Dodie117]

On first diagnosis my EP offered me the choice - drug regime or ablation. I opted for ablation. I was on bisoprolol for six months while I waited for a slot. That was Nov 2013 and no AF or drugs now, apart from anticoagulant.

[123Abc123 in reply to Dodie117]

Mmm. Interesting that you still have to take the anticoagulant. I was diagnosed in 2013, hated bisoprolol but stuck with it for 3 years, failed with digoxin but now doing fine with Atenolol. No suggestion of having the ablation though.

[Clareowenpearcy in reply to 123Abc123]

My first 2 ablations I was under 60yrs, afterwards I was on no meds. My last ablation I was 64 yrs old and now have to stay on Xarelto for life. (I was told because of age) 😩

[Dodie117 in reply to 123Abc123]

I had two suspected TIAs although never confirmed as I did not realise and did not go to doctor.

There is an idea that the scarring to the heart could cause clotting but I don't know if true.

One can also have an episode and be unaware, although I wa very symptomatic.

Also I am over 65 so advice was to stay on anticoagulants and that was my preference also.