Hernia operation cancelled due to AF - could it happen again?

[blacknight]

I had a hernia operation under general anaesthetic cancelled at the last minute due to an ECG showing a high heart rate (146bpm) and atrial fibrillation. I was diagnosed with paroxysmal AF two years ago but hadn't had any notable episodes recently. I think anxiety about the op triggered the episode this time and am worried the same thing will happen again if I re-schedule the procedure. Has anyone had a similar experience and found a solution?

[jeanjeannie50]

Anxiety must be the biggest trigger for AF. Some people on this forum have said that a diazepam tablet has helped them be calm. I'd have a chat with your GP and if he can't think of anything to advise you, suggest one or two of these pills to take beforehand. Very annoying to have had your procedure cancelled. Did you have to stop taking your anticoagulants?

Jean

[blacknight in reply to jeanjeannie50]

Thank you Jean. Yes, I had to stop Rivaroxaban three days before the operation.

[BobD Volunteer]

This is really up to the anaesthetist whether he/she is prepared to proceed. Try not to worry about it as that will make things worse but do talk to the team about it.

[Nigel2000]

I’m surprised the surgeon and anesthesiologist didn’t give you any advice about this. Maybe you should see a cardiologist?

[blacknight in reply to Nigel2000]

Thank you, yes, I'll talk to my GP and hopefully get a referral to a cardiologist.

[Mrsvemb]

I had a partial nephrectomy a few years ago. At the time I was on 1.25mg Bisoprolol twice a day. My cardiologist told me to double the dose the day before surgery and on the day. He told me to tell the anaesthetist on the day.

I had no problems.

[Davidpeaty]

I have just had a laparoscopic repair of recurrent inguinal hernia with similar A/F to yours and had to stop my Apixaban 3 days before. My blood pressure was I believe elevated but an allowance was made for the "white coat syndrome" and a further test was taken later and better so the operation went ahead but I cant really tell when I have A/F as opposed to palpitations caused by other things. I guess they have to play it safe good luck next time