PM implanted but scared of AV node ablation

[Melleray]

I had a pacemaker fitted four weeks ago because of Parosysmal AF and am due to have an AV node ablation in two weeks. I am coping with having the PM, but am terrified of having the AV node ablated. I am usually fine between AF episodes and it really scares me to think of losing my natural heartbeat. Has anyone else stopped short of having the AV node ablated?

[Shepheart]

Hi again Melleray, as I mentioned earlier I have a pacemaker and I have had the av node ablated since Dec.21/18. During pacemaker checks the tech-nurses tell me that I have an ‘escape beat’ or ‘intrinsic beat’ of around 40. That means if the pacer were to stop working I’d still have a heart beat/pulse that would keep me going. I might not feel all that energetic but it would allow me time to get to a hospital. These natural ventricle beats are different per person. It’s something you can research that may ease your mind. I know it did for me.