Ablation

[Bubs6]

My last episode of AF was May 2018. I usually have about two per year which lasts , at the most 90 minutes. I am on a waiting list for ablation and not sure if it is for me. Do I really need this done???? Any advice?

[BobD Volunteer]

There is an old saying "when the pupil is ready the teacher will come." Sounds like the puipil is not ready. The only right answer is what is right for you BUT please ask yourself why you think it not for you and make any choices out of education rather than fear or prejudice.

[Hidden]

I’m afraid this is one of the most difficult questions to answer Bubs. It is generally recognised that an ablation is not a cure and that more than one may be necessary to stop AF for a “reasonable” time, ie years. Also, an ablation should only be considered if AF is impacting on ones quality of life. On the other hand, generally AF is progressive so episodes can become more frequent and ultimately, AF can become permanent. To keep AF under control, sufferers need to take a variety of different drugs for life and if they don’t, the overall condition of the heart can deteriorate over time. Most experts say that if an ablation is being considered, the quicker it is done the better. If you have confidence in your EP, then perhaps you should follow the advice given. I have had 2 ablations since July 2016 and I have no regrets and it is rare to hear any members say that they regret having one. Bearing mind that the majority people move on with their lives once treated and tend not to post, it suggests that an ablation is a good route forward for many, but it does carry some risks and requires careful consideration........good luck.

[MydogBrandy]

I have just had an ablation after being told I needed one for 18 years. All I can say is I should have done this back then, I was really scared and now I would have another one if I needed it. Good luck xxx

[Coco51]

It's a real dilemma. I can only tell you my experience. For 9 years I had AF. About 3 or 4 times a year and lasting 2 hours almost to the minute. Then for a year I had none. Then quite suddenly it changed. I was out walking and the AF started with a vengeance and didn't stop till my first cardioversion 5 months later. Since then I've had two ablations and so far the second one is holding it in check with the help of Flecainide. I personally feel if I'd had the ablation earlier it may have headed off the persistent AF and the risk of the heart remodelling. But I can't know for sure and what may be right for me may not be right for you.

Best wishes.

[MarkS]

I held out for around 15 years before having my ablation. My AF was around every 3 days and lasted a day. It then started to increase to around 80% and it's then I had my ablation. I'm glad I held off as procedures had improved so much in the meantime.

Personally I would not consider an ablation if I only had 2 short spells a year. I would however concentrate on the underlying causes and get yourself in tip-top condition as you may be able to prevent the AF permanently and in any case be in good condition for an ablation when/if the time comes.

[Bob56]

I am inclined to agree with Mark S. Two short episodes a year doesn't sound too much. You don't say whether you are on medication or not, as drugs like Flecainide can keep AF at bay for many years. It's all about quality of life and I held out until my AF was really getting in the way, and the health risks were undoubtedly increasing. It's also true that the procedures are getting ever more effective, and less invasive. However, that does mean doctors are more willing to suggest an ablation as an alternative to long term medication, and there is an argument that the younger you are, the better the chances of the ablation working, as well as being more likely to recover quickly. I trusted my cardiologist and we both agreed when it was right to go for the ablation. We can only give you our personal experiences, but hopefully it might help your thought process.

[secondtry]

Hi Bubs, you have had some good reasoned replies already. I assume because you have been offered an ablation (with only 2 episodes a year) that you have history and are probably on several drugs. In this case an ablation may be best. If not the case, it sounds far too early for an ablation and the necessary procedures around 'going under the surgeon's knife' - a bit graphic I know but it's an old saying from my mother, never do it unless it is essential. I favour Mark's suggestion of getting yourself in tip top condition first. Lastly accept that you will never know what was the best option as there's no way of knowing how the alternative would have worked out. Good luck.