Has anyone experience of catheter ablation at St George’s?

[Helenfox]

It’s been 13 years since my first ablation and I’m feeling really anxious again! I’m worried I’m not as young as I was then. I’m 50 now. I’m also out of my comfort zone as I’ve always had cardio treatment at Brompton, crazy but different unfamiliar hospital is adding to anxiety! Anyone had good experience of catheter ablation at St George’s please? I need to calm my nerves!!

[BobD Volunteer]

Good hospital young person. I had my first at 60 and my last at 63 but adnittedly at RBHT. I know St Georges are good though. Prof John Camm is head of department and you don't get much better.

[Hidden]

hello Helen, I had a Cryoablation there in mid 2016 and a RF ablation 4 months ago, both carried out by the same EP. The specialist nurse who carried out the pre-assessment was lovely. She carefully explained the procedure and all the instructions regarding medication, eating and drinking stuff prior to the event and generally everything you need to know to prepare you for the procedure. In my case, I needed to be there early on the day of the procedure and everyone was helpful and very professional. I didn't see much of the EP on the day of the second ablation, but prior to the discharge, the team ran through the do's and dont's before leaving the next morning. The night team monitor you closely checking all the vitals and the puncture wound so no complaints from me. There were only two of us in the ward which I expect is unusual, so there wasn't a lot of disturbance, other than the regular checks. All in all, a good experience so there really shouldn't be anything for you to worry about.

If you haven't already, read the 2 fact sheet in the "Pinned Posts" section to the right and up a bit on this page. The "Preparing for" one contains a direct link and if you scroll down on the "Recovering from" one, you will find a direct link to that one too, alternatively there is a link in BigKings post below......hope this helps, please let us know how you get on....

[Helenfox in reply to Hidden]

Thank you, that’s very reassuring. I’m going for pre op tomorrow and ablation on 5th Feb. I have to be in by 7.30am so yes early start. My consultant is Dr Zia Zuberi (think that’s how it’s spelt). I’m sooo nervous as when I read through these posts I see people talking if sedation but he promised me I’d be under general! My last ablation at Brompton I was under for 5hrs and the thought of being aware for that length of time truly terrifies me! I’m such a coward! My friends daughter had a heart transplant in March just gone and when I look back on everything she’s overcome and been through I feel pathetic worrying so much! I’m going to read those pinned posts, thank you and yes I will let you know how it goes. Thank you!

[Hidden in reply to Helenfox]

Hi Helenfox I'm on the waiting list for st georges and everyone on here has putmy mind at rest. Look forward to hearing from you how yours goes too. Can i ask how long were you on tge waiting list for? Sue

[Helenfox in reply to Hidden]

Hi Sue,

I was on the waiting list since end June 18 so about 8 months. Yes it’s put my mind at rest too! Hope you get a date soon.

[Hidden in reply to Helenfox]

I've got my date now 8th February.

[Helenfox in reply to Hidden]

Great! I’ll be going home as you’re going in! Good luck

[Hidden in reply to Helenfox]

And you Helen.

[Barb1]

I have had 2 at St. Georges. They are well known for their heart specialisation. Most difficult bit was the parking! Allow plenty of time and don't be shocked at the cost.

[Hidden]

St George’s Atkinson Morley is a fantastic hospital. Busy yes but they have some very good specialists there and generally the staff are amazing. Good Luck 👍

[Tapanac]

I had an ablation at St. George’s with Dr Behr (he is now Professor Behr). I’m still here!!!! I’m 74 nearly 75. Good luck

[Helenfox]

I had my pre op yesterday and allowed plenty of time to park and orienrate myself so I actually checked in 45mins early! I was seen immediately for weight/height/bp then straight round for ecg. Waited about 20mins then saw cardiac nurse who was amazing! I was SO nervous when we drove into the car park but seriously everyone I met was brilliant. The nurse (Nadia) went through everything and I had time to ask loads of questions and actually got loads of answers that I’ve never had before. She went through all of my medical history. I was told years ago I was having panic attacks and put on antidepressants . It was only when I had a really bad episode whilst at the gym I drove myself to the gp and insisted someone check my heart as I 100% knew it wasn’t a panic attack. A new gp did an ecg there and then and found I was in af. The rest is history but I have learnt that having pre eclampsia which then went into full blown eclamptic seizure and extremely high bp for month after then a year of meds probably initiated the af, then problems with two further pregnancies. I had never considered that as a factor but looking back I had abnormal ecg after my son was born and can vividly remember being told not to be over anxious as it was because I’d just had a baby!! Anyhow that was then, this is now and although I’m nervous after yesterday I’m a lot less so and looking forward to a positive outcome!

Thanks for comments, it’s a really helpful group.

Two weeks to go! I’ll let you know how it goes. 😊