Asprin and Ablation

[jj1017]

I received a call from my Dr office for a pre screen for my EP study and ablation next week. I was told to start taking a full strength asprin 2 days before the procedure and to continue to do so for 6 weeks. My ablation is for WPW and RVOT-VT. Is it common to do an asprin regiment for this type of ablation?
Also, Im enjoying a lovely cold at the moment..is there any cold meds that are safe to take to get some releife from coughing at night? Im on Toprol and Im not sure whats safe to take with that.

[jj1017]

Hi!
Yes I was told to hold the Toprol for 3 days before the procedure. They moved it from the 20th to the 21st so I'll be stopping the meds Sunday. Im a little nervous to stop it because even when I do take it I get breakthough episodes. They are not as frequent, but still as powerful. Im also nervous for the EP study..it's weird to have to go in and have them provoke the exact horrible experience you try all day to avoid!  But Im looking forward to getting it done and over with.
How have you been?  I know you have your appt coming up soon..I hope it goes well!!
Thanks so much for the info..as always!!;)

[Brooke_38]

Hi Joy...

It is standard protocol for right sided ablations that aspirin be taken for 6 weeks following the procedure. The reason for this is to reduce the risk of clot formation that could result in stroke.

For those that have trans-septal approach for left sided ablations, IV Heparin is given during hospitalization. Upon discharge oral coumadin is prescribed. Hopefully all your arrhythmias are on the right side of your heart:)

Your EP isn't planning to have you do a washout of Toprol before your procedure? Usually all medication is ceased about 5 days before the EP Study/Ablation. The goal behind that is so that while you're in the lab your arrhythmias will be easy to induce. If they can't induce them then they cannot ablate.

As for OTC medication for your cough. The 2 that come to mind are Delsym and Tylenol Cold Multi-System Nightime. Both contain the ingredient Dextromethorphan which is safe for those that have arrhythmia and there are no drug interactions with Toprol.

I hope that you are able to have a restful night:)