I was in your boat in 2009. I had AFib, AFlutter, and had a pacemaker and 3 ablations under my belt. the ablations tamed the arrhythmias but did not "cure" me. They just made AFib/AFlutter more tolerable. I was also on a boatload of meds and I still suffered from arrhythmias. I hated it. The drugs worked for awhile and then not be as efficient so I was put on yet another drug. Finally the EP suggested the AV Node ablation since I already had a pacer. I have to admit, I was scared to death about that decision. I sat on the final decision for three months, during which time I had some AFib events that lasted 60+ hours.
Well after a particularly tough event, I called the EP and set up the procedure. It was the best decision I ever made. I am down to two drugs: atenolol and Pradaxa. I have lots of energy, I travel internationally, and go to the gym. Life after an AVJ is very good.
I have since had to replace my pacer due to battery life. I did have uneasy feelings about doing that because I am 100% dependent on the pacer. They put me at ease by letting me know that they were going to put in a temporary pacer and then switch out the pacer. The whole procedure took less than 45 min and I was awake the entire time.
You decision is a heavy one and should not be taken lightly. I know because I was there. But It was the right decision for me. Good luck to you.
ksig
Good advice, Jerry. Here's to us old guys!
I agree with Tom, and think it may be worth discussing with your cardiologist:
1) is there any thing that can be done to improve the patch in you heart
2) what is the reliability of pacemakers (including batteries) today
and ask, how "bad" is the tachy? Is it just uncomfortable or is it a serious threat in its own right?
Tom mentions the Quality of Life. I'm an old guy, but can say that is a subject that has affected my decision relative to atrial fibrillation. I have a permanent AFib condition but as it is well "controlled" (blood thinner and heart rate control, for me beta blockers work) and my chances of a cure via invasive (ablation) procedures are not good. Thus I live with the controlled condition. I'm sure I would find this harder to take if I was as young as you are, I was fortunate and had no heart problems until I was in my mid-50s.
If you decide to go with a pace maker try to be positive, our technology these days (electronic/battery/strategy/software) is very reliable.
Wishing you a Christmas Miracle.
Ablation of the AV junction or node is forever. There's no turning back once it's done. You will be 100% dependent on your pacer. Now...I know a person who's been totally pacer dependent for 25 years, and he's fine. The finality of this procedure is what I hesitate over. At 38 years of age, so many years lie ahead of you for new discoveries. Personally, my quality of life would have to be severely affected to consider this procedure. Just MO. Good luck!