AV Node Ablation and Pacemaker

Hi Everyone,

I had an AV Node Ablation and Pacemaker implanted all on the same day last Thursday 1/20/22. I was in a situation where I was having many different heart rhythms, svt, atypical aflutter and afib. I have had two MAZE procedures which worked for a while but unfortunately staying in sinus rhythm was just not to be. I was told by several doctors that a cardiac ablation would probably not be successful so I went with the AV Node Ablation. Anyway, the procedure is done and I am still getting used to the pacemaker. I have read through all of the documentation the hospital gave me and and I can't find anything about exercise restrictions besides those regarding arm movement and no vigorous exercise for 4-6 weeks. Is it ok to walk at a slow pace for 20-30 minutes at a time? I have read many of your posts and have found a lot of comfort in how well most of you are doing after having this procedure done. I hope once I recover I will be back to my normal active lifestyle. I am 62 and feel like I have a lot more life to live! Thank you in advance for any help.

[Fifimyangel]

Hi . I had my pacemaker fitted 9 yrs in March. It's OK to go walking as exercise. Try not to raise your arm or over stretch until everything heals. You'll soon get used to the pacemaker. I forget I have one. You'll be fine 🙂

[Hidden in reply to Fifimyangel]

Thank you Fifimyangel. That is great to hear!

[CDreamer]

I was told to ensure that you don’t raise your arm the side the PM is implanted above your shoulder for at least 4 weeks. This is very important as it could dislodge the LV lead. Walking great but be aware that often a HR limit is imposed on the PM for the first few weeks - so if you get breathless earlier than you would normally - this will be the limiter on your PM. It’s a bit like the speed limiters they put on trucks. Once I’d had my first check at 6 weeks the limit was lifted.

[Hidden in reply to CDreamer]

Thanks CDreamer. That explains why I feel short of breath on exertion and I'm really not doing much that would make me short of breath. I guess I am just anxious for the recovery to be over. I just have to be patient- not one of my strong suits!

[Golfer60UK]

Good morning from misty UK. I too have had an AV node and pacemaker procedure carried out. So far very good as my heart is now under control with BP readings pretty good for a 76 year old. No feeling at all of AF, so all good

Hope you have the same results and best of luck

Dave

[Hidden in reply to Golfer60UK]

I love that I don't feel the afib anymore! Thank you for the kind words.