Wiggly arteries stopping ablation

[Summerswallow]

I had an ablation for severe ventricular tachycardia and arhythmias, via the groin. The arteries were so “wiggly” that the catheter tore an artery and ablation was abandoned. A repeat a few months later also had to be abandoned. The condition is now controlled by meds only (Bisoprolol, Ramipril). I have a steadily growing ascending aortic aneurism and damaged aortic valve.

Has anyone had similar experiences?

[JulianM]

I haven't (yet) had a comparable experience, but may have similar underlying issues.

I, too, am being monitored for an enlarged ascending aorta, although it's not quite large enough to justify an operation and my valve is not currently affected. I'm asymptomatic and I don't have any rhythm issues (as yet).

An MRI scan of my neck shows substantial arterial tortuosity - the 'wiggles' of which you speak. The arteries in my groin haven't been checked yet, but I'd expect them to be similar.

I am being monitored by an adult congenital heart disease team at a regional/national centre. When the underlying conditions make treatment options tough, you need a team at the top of their game behind you, and to keep working on your relationship with them.

Very best of luck.

[Summerswallow in reply to JulianM]

Thanks for your interesting comments.

Until your mention of it I had not heard of an adult congenital heart disease team. I am aware of obvious anatomical defects, such as transposition of vessels, and these would clearly fall into that remit. However, you mention that you were asymptomatic, and so I might expect that both your (and my) aortic aneurisms are not congenital, or they would have shown up much earlier in our lives. This leaves me wondering if my condition would be dealt with by the type of team that you mention or not. Congenital means present at birth.

It also makes me think of familial (though that is not the same as congenital), as there is a strong presence of cardiac disease, and mortality, in my maternal line. Anyway, I expect that it does not matter, and the relevant medics will deal with my case.

[JulianM in reply to Summerswallow]

The commonest congenital heart defect is actually having a bicuspid aortic valve: this may not be picked up until people are in middle age. A proportion go on to develop aortic aneurysms, but many don't. That's an aside, though - my own aortic valve is definitely tricuspid.

My cardiologist - who specialises in aortic diseases - is convinced I have a (mild) form of connective tissue disorder which is genetic - though all genetic tests so far have been negative. The fact it was only diagnosed when I volunteered for a study looking at other things and had my first cardiac echo at age 59 ... turns out to be par for the course. It doesn't seem to be familial, though I'm not completely certain about that.

From what you say, you very much fit the profile of people with congenital heart issues: your doctors may be supported by relevant specialists to the point where you don't need a referral, but it might be a discussion to have with them.