Should I have an ablation?

[Anon2023]

Hi. Just looking for some advice. I’ll apologise in advance for the long post. I had ohs (mitral valve replacement) on jan 20th. I subsequently had atrial flutter twice in feb. On the first occasion it was stopped through meds and on the second I had cardioversion. I had no prior history of AF despite earlier OHS. I’m currently on 10mg of bisoprolol and 62.5mg of digoxin. Fortunately I’ve not had a repeat of the atrial flutter. I’ve been told by the cardiac nurse that I’ve been referred for an ablation. I’m wondering if I need it? I’m in constant sinus rhythm now and the meds seem to be keeping the atrial flutter at bay. I do have eptopics but was told not to worry. I’ve read that atrial flutter is common for up to 6 weeks after ohs. As such I’m wondering if what I experienced was as a result of my heart repairing itself. I just don’t want to undergo any procedure that isn’t absolutely necessary. I’d be grateful for your views. Unfortunately my follow up care has been lacking so no opportunity to ask a cardiologist. Thanks.

[JBNZ]

Whoa, referred for an ablation WITHOUT seeing a cardiologist! Nope, if it were me I'd be insisting on seeing a cardiologist. I had multiple cardioversions prior to my ablation and as you quite rightly point out, you currently seem able to stay in sinus.

You need to have a consultation with a cardiologist to discuss the precise situation, there may be other reasons they think an ablation is an option. I would suggest seeing a cardiac electrophysiologist (EP) as the Healthline website says 'These doctors receive the same education and training as a cardiologist, as well as additional training to diagnose and treat heart arrhythmias and cardiac rhythm disorders.' I was referred to an EP prior to my ablation.

Good luck and I hope you stay in sinus!

J

[Anon2023 in reply to JBNZ]

Hi. Thanks for your reply. I was referred by the cardiac nurse after a telephone call. I assume that I’ll get to see a cardiologist before they do the ablation. Thanks again for your reply.