Pre-op done

[GordonS]

Hi all, went for pre-op yesterday and all seems fine, ablation scheduled for next Tuesday 18/9/18. I am two minds as to whether to have it done as I haven't had an AF attack for about 2 months whereas I had 6 in the previous 4 where HR was at or around 160 bpm. On the one hand I think if it ain't broke don't fix it and on the other the quicker you get the procedure done then the better the outcome. My previous experience was that I had progressive AF over about three years before ablation and I don't want that again. So - leaning towards having it done but can't get rid of this monkey in my ear who says don't do it. Waiting to speak with the arrhythmia nurse today hopefully. Thoughts please kind people.

[Hidden]

You had a very successful first ablation seven years ago, you have been on the waiting list for your second for 5 months, you have been for the pre op assessment. Why are you hesitating now, is it concern about complications?

If you cancel now, and then the AF gets worse, you will be in to the winter period when cancellations for elective procedures are common.

[GordonS in reply to Hidden]

Thanks for prompt reply, I am not concerned about complications more just reluctant to have it done when I am feeling pretty good at the moment and cycling going well. Only seem to be having a fair few ectopics. I take your point about Winter though and not sure where I would be on the list or even if I would be "referred back to GP" and have to start process all over again.

[CDreamer in reply to GordonS]

Exactly.

[Hidden]

On a lighter note Gordon, we prefer the term Pre-pro, purely on the basis that an ablation is a procedure and not an operation. Back to the more important bit. I had a cryoablation back in June 16 and all was fine until October 17. I only had around 4 episodes by the time I was put on the waiting list in December and like you, had doubts about proceeding. However, as I approached the date of the ablation, episodes were becoming more frequent and (so far) I am pleased the procedure went ahead just under 2 weeks ago. Very much a personal decision of course, but I will take the opportunity of wishing you all the best for next Tuesday, please let us know how you get on...….

[GordonS in reply to Hidden]

Thanks Flapjack, I hope your recovery continues to go well, I do tend to call it a procedure albeit quite a lengthy one but the hospital called it a pre-op though. Don't know whether it will be RF or cryoablation does it matter?

[Hidden in reply to GordonS]

These days they normally try the cryoablation first then follow that up with RF to touch up any missed bits but as your first was a good while ago, it’s difficult to say what they will do but I expect it will be RF, especially if they have mentioned a GA.

Thanks for you kind wishes, all good so far and that’s the way it’s going to stay!! Not sure pre-pro will ever catch on, but it did cause a chuckle!

All the best, John

[CDreamer]

Oh that b..... monkey - find a way to stop its’ chatter! Mine is a parrot - can’t half peck as well!

Seriously though - I don’t think I’ve had any procedure without going through that internal dialogue. In the end you have to distinguish between what is nerves (natural) and what is real concerns about consequences and then check them out and come to a rational decision based on all of the factors.

[grandmadogs]

I think your doubts are entirely understandable and only you can decide what to do. Maybe ask yourself if some of the doubts are nerves and how you feel about AF returning. Good luck.

[Heart1234Wisconsin]

Given the safety of the procedure, and the relief the first one gave you, and the experience gained I’ve the past few years, logic says do it. Fortunately or perhaps unfortunately , logic isn’t the only factor we use in decision making. Our feelings and comfort level play a big part. I myself wouldn’t think three times about another ablation, but I might think twice. Use logic tempered with what feels comfortable.