Had Cryoablation on Monday

[Graham220854]

I had the procedure at Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital. A consultant was in the theatre, but the procedure was performed by a charming young Man. This was unexpected and I am concerned as it was very painful and it has not worked. They are suggesting a redo in a few months with RF ablation. The good news is that cardioversion was performed and my heartbeat is regular. However, this probably will not last. The nurses and staff at the hospital were lovely.

To try and prevent a fistula a PPI (lansoprazole) has been prescribed, it was given to me on a full stomach. I understood that it should be taken 30 mins before food and that appears to be the case. The Young man said that it makes no difference. How is it best taken to prevent what is usually a fatal complication, can you open up the capsule and have it with something before your main meal?

Any advice welcome.

[Pita]

I take my PPI on an empty stomach and at least 30 to 45 mins before food. My reflux is quite severe since my 2nd ablation in 2011. I can tell you that PPI's can cause palpatations the higher the dosage the worse they get. Pam

[millie-becca-187 in reply to Pita]

My reflux is also very severe post 2nd ablation (4 months ago) I'm awaiting an endoscopy on 10th October, they've stopped my ppi omeprazole and I'm in agony most days!

[Graham220854 in reply to millie-becca-187]

Sorry that you are in such pain. How was it after the first ablation?

Have you tried Ranitidine ?

Reflux is horrible.

[millie-becca-187 in reply to Graham220854]

1st ablation I went back into AF after only 2weeks, no heartburn. 2nd ablation still in nsr and feeling great except this blasted heartburn, but hope to get it sorted soon. Tried every over the counter remedy, and nothing helps. Only omeprazole, and Dr won't prescribe me any more until I've had an endoscopy, so have to suffer until then.

[Graham220854]

Thanks for the reply Pam. Sorry to hear that. It is worrying that the doctor gave me this advice. I would not be taking a PPI if not for the fistula issue. Although rare it is usually fatal. Also disappointed that I was not told in advance that an inexperienced doctor would be performing the ablation. Obviously greater risks !

[Mike11 in reply to Graham220854]

If you think about it, no doctor can move from inexperienced to experienced without performing operations. As you say the consultant was present all the time and probably watching his junior like a hawk so you can rely on there being no increased risk.

[Graham220854 in reply to Mike11]

Hi Mike

Thanks for taking the time to reply. I hope that is true, but I had not been told about it, and the evidence is that the more experienced the fewer complications. My fault entirely in just accepting what a friend told me. I don't think that I am going to have the redo they are suggesting with RF Ablation in a few months.