Cryo Ablation booked and worried

[ScottieScotsman]

I'm booked for early Nov as AF problematic and it was deemed that I couldn't take Flecainide any longer as too dangerous with other drugs to control heart disease. I'm worried, anyone had it done and able to offer any advice please?

[Wonky_heart]

I had cryo ablation just over a year ago. The team who cared for me were lovely and so reassuring. I was sedated and really knew very little about it. I was monitored in the ICU for a few hours afterwards and had to take care of the wound site. I was told to expect some heart pain for a few weeks afterwards (i did get this) because the heart obviously had been 'damaged' and was reacting to this. It all settled and I was AF free. Unfortunately for me, I have gone on to develop A Fib which is very problematic and I'm now on a waiting list for another ablation for this (the ablations for AF and A Fib are completely different). Having gone through one ablation I'm not worried at all about the procedure. I couldn't drive for a week afterwards and had to be careful about lifting heavy things for a time, so plan for this. But I'd say, don't worry and good luck.

[beechesblue]

I had my CYRO ablation just over 2 years ago for AF, had earlier had ablation for A Flutter. It went well and after the procedure spent night in hospital being monitored and sent home, about a week to feel normal

[Fullofheart]

I've had 3 ablations, 1 x cryo (cold) and 2 x RF(radio frequency/ heat). It's unsettling to us both in terms of the anticipation and the actual process, but a straightforward procedure for the electrophysiologist and the rest of the medical team.You'll be in overnight usually and home the next day.

It's not something I'd look forward to but if I need another (and I probably will at some point as I'm still only 49 and have had Atrial fibrilation/ AF since late 20s) then I wouldn't hesitate.

I was awake for the cryo and one of the two RF ones. Ask about the EP and hospitals policy/ preference on that. But either way, you'll be sedated. And they keep a close eye on you throughout.

[Fullofheart]

Oh, one more thing...I needed a lot more recovery time than the discharge letter suggests, so bear than in mind and read the information leaflet that is produced by patients. I think BobD was involved in this. A very useful read. Helpful tips for planning for it, for your stay in hospital, and for recovery.

[ScottieScotsman in reply to Fullofheart]

Thanks. Can you send a link to the info leaflet mentioned please?

[Fullofheart in reply to ScottieScotsman]

I don't have q link sorry but it's frequently posted. You should find it. Otherwise contact AFA to request.

[BeeBee79]

I’ve had 4 ablations - 2 sedated and 2 under GA. The sedated ones were fine and you’re just sleepy and in and out of consciousness. The worst part is lying still afterwards…..

I’d say just make sure to rest in the week afterwards - a good excuse to put your feet up 😉

[JustRembrandt]

Hello - completely understand your concerns. I had cryo ablation about 4 years ago after worsening attacks of AF. Operation under sedation was straightforward and not a lot of discomfort - no serious side effects apart from badly bruised groin at site of incision, but not painful. Recovered at home and rested up in bed for a few days. The cryo procedure has improved the condition a great deal but not completely eliminated. Glad I had it done.