Third ablation question

[ETFCfan]

Hello, don’t post much but do read often, I’m just back from a good appointment with my Barts consultant. I am back in persistent AF after two previous ablations and he’s offered a third. I’ve accepted and am on the waiting list as urgent and down for a cancellation but may be six months. My question is last time I was on amiodarone for three months after and felt awful. He has noted that and said I don’t have to have it. Forgot to ask if there will there be an alternative drug given after? He also said if this fails he will try rhythm control drug treatment and then Pace and Ablate so feeling quite positive that I’m not just being left.

[Hidden]

Well it sounds as if he is doing the best he can for you and many here have said third time WAS lucky! As you probably know, Amiodarone is probably the best available rhythm drug and is often used before and after ablations/cardioversions to help retain rhythm for as long as possible during the recovery period. Other drugs are available, just google “AF rhythm control drugs”. Perhaps if you rang his secretary, she would find out what he’s proposing but good luck.......

[ETFCfan in reply to Hidden]

Thank you FlapJack for the tip. I will remember to ask his secretary when I phone. I’m planning on phoning in a few weeks just to reiterate that I will accept a late cancellation. I will google the drugs so I’m informed when I speak. I do feel very confident that he is trying to do his best for me which is so nice. Thanks again.

[Maggimunro in reply to ETFCfan]

Hi there

Good idea to ring again about taking a cancellation. Another idea, one that worked for me, was to say you are happy to come in just before Easter (for me it was Christmas). You would be amazed at the number of people who turn down their ablation appointments because the date was just before a holiday period. Quite crazy but true. I was the 4 th person to be offered the slot for my third ablation. The previous 3 had deferred.

[ETFCfan in reply to Maggimunro]

Wow that’s a great idea, I’d just like it over with the date is irrelevant. Having said that we have a big party for our Golden Wedding in June booked and he’s made a note of that date! Thanks for the tip.

[Hidden]

I’m due to have an ablation at Barts I’m the not too distant future. Was your experience of the hospital, procedure etc. a good one?

[ETFCfan in reply to Hidden]

Hello, yes it was very efficient and friendly at all stages. I do believe that there is a new unit from when I had my last ablation three years ago but that should improve the surroundings. After a six hour ablation under general anaesthetic I didn’t feel well enough to be released first thing next morning and ended up having to phone and go back in the next day as they are like everywhere else are strapped for beds. However I had every confidence in the treatment given there. Good luck hope it works for you .

[Hidden in reply to ETFCfan]

Thanks