All's well that ends well.

[GordonS]

I had my cryoablation 2 weeks ago today, ended up in hospital for 8 days. This was due to complications in surgery when I had a pericardial effusion (bleed into the heart sac) BP dropping and drain fitted. The day after the procedure I felt fine and looking forward to going home until the drain was removed and things went downhill from there. Basically my gastric system shut down almost immediately and my stomach swelled with distended bowels. Pain was excruciating. Had urgent CT scan and treated for gastroparesis for the next 4/5 days with a NG tube and nil by mouth. Slight pneumonia on the lungs sorted with antibiotics. The good news is that I have been out of hospital a week and am feeling great, even managed a 5 mile stroll (stopped for scone and coffee). HR back to normal resting circa 50 and BP now better than before averaging 110/75. Just having an occasional run of AF/SVT up to 160ish and soreness to the left side which are to be expected. Eating well and digestive system slowly getting back to normal. Looking forward to getting back to work and cycling in due course. Would I have another ablation probably but hopefully not for another 8 years. I think my good fitness level before the op has stood me in good stead.

[grandmadogs]

Goodness Gordon you have been through it but you must be amazingly fit to have come through it so quickly and already be walking 5 miles. Congratulations and I hope another ablation is not needed for another few years if ever. Jill

[GordonS in reply to grandmadogs]

Had 7 years free after my first which partially decided on my having this one.

[Kaz747]

What a drama Gordon. Glad things are improving for you now. Take it easy!

[GordonS in reply to Kaz747]

I do like to challenge myself but I don't want to kill myself either so I will be taking things steady.

[Hidden]

Man of Steel!

But take it easy feller, are you a little too ambitious right now after what you have been through?

[Hidden]

How awful for you Gordon. I recall your reluctance to have this procedure. I'm awaiting my 4th and have to admit when I'm feeling ok as now I do harbour alot of' whatifs '!

Hope all goes well for you now.

Sandra

[GordonS in reply to Hidden]

Thanks Sandra, most ablations go without any problems, don't let my experience sway your decision, I'm sure mine will be fine, already feeling positive. All the best to you x

[GordonS]

Just received my follow up appointment with EP 6 weeks from discharge, must have got them worried!

[Hidden]

Hi Gordon, delighted to hear you are recovering well from must have been a very scary experience. Fortunately, these problems are rare but it is important that people are aware that risks exist. Sure, your pre-ablation fitness levels probably helped your recovery but please be very cautious about making the big mistake of doing too much too quickly.

[GordonS in reply to Hidden]

I agree with you entirely, there have been enough posts on here that suggest problems if one over does the exercise and trys too much too soon and suffer setbacks. It is important though to maintain a healthy balance but most of all listen to our bodies.

[jeanjeannie50]

Hi Gordon

My goodness, you don't do things by halves do you! I'm sorry to hear all you've been through and guess it must have been a worrying time for you and your family.

It's good to hear that you are now on the mend and I wish you a speedy recovery.

Please allow your heart to heal and don't go doing too much too soon. I've had three ablations and lots of cardioversions and have had to learn the hard way how important it is to rest after a procedure.

Best wishes.

Jean

[GordonS in reply to jeanjeannie50]

Thanks Jean I will take it easy and not rush things, step by step, although 5 miles was probably a bit much although for my calves and not my heart.

[jeanjeannie50 in reply to GordonS]

Sometimes when our heart is not quite 100% right, we feel ok walking somewhere, but can struggle on the way back. The times I did that! It's far too early for you to be walking 5 miles, 1 or two yes. Take care.