On the return of AFIB.....Cardioversion/Ablation

[Woobag]

After 4 years 6 months since my last cardioversion, symptomatic Afib has returned (I lasted 7 years previously).

My consultant has now recommended me for ablation after my next cardioversion. The last two cardioversions were under a general anaesthetic but this one one will be under sedation. Is this now 'normal' and will I feel it? Just a bit anxious about having CV despite it being successful twice before.

Simon

[BobD Volunteer]

Didn't you do well! How lucky to last so long after DCCV. Best go to AF Association main website and read all the booklets about Ablation so you understand what you are facing and also the two fact sheets on preparing fopr and recovering from ablation.

heartrhythmalliance.org/res... and heartrhythmalliance.org/res....

[Woobag in reply to BobD]

Thanks Bob,I've read everything I can find on ablation! Yes, I know I'm lucky to go for such long periods in sinus rhythm but, for me, AF is so debilitating that I would like to give it a try.

[jeanjeannie50]

It certainly sounds like cardioversions are the thing for you. I wouldn't have an ablation until you really have to (I've had 3 and still have AF and the first two made my AF worse). They are not always the wonder cure we hope for. Who's to say that your next cardioversion wont last you another 4.5 years. They always work for me, but for lots of months rather than years.

I've never had a cardioversion without a general anaesthetic and I've had lots. Once in A&E they were going to do one without anything, well within minutes of being told that I was back in normal sinus rhythm! Oh the power of the mind!!!

Best wishes

Jean

[Woobag in reply to jeanjeannie50]

Indeed, the power of the mind!

I'm worried about just having sedation but if it puts me back in NSR then that's the result I need.

Simon

[BobD Volunteer in reply to Woobag]

Different EPs use different things. Mine for all my four ablations has always used GA and RF but those who use cryo ablation process tend to use sedation.

[Brizzy50000]

I had RF ablation 3 years ago now, this was done under sedation and whilst it was uncomfortable and felt a bit strange I cannot remember any pain, since the operation apart from some ectopic episodes, I have been AF free which has been great, as like you my AF was very debilitating occurring for days with just the odd days free.

Good luck with your ablation

[Hidden]

My cardiovesions have all been under sedation, but it was pretty heavy sedation as I don't remember anything about them other than the pleasure of coming round in nsr

[Hidden]

Hi Simon, have you been taking any medication like Flecainide following your cv?

[Woobag in reply to Hidden]

No

[Stinky1953]

All my 10+ cardioversions under sedation and I never felt any pain or discomfort.

Tim.