Posted by John Gross on April 30, 2001 at 20:36:28:
In Reply to: Not Ready for the Maze Yet? posted by Jerry on April 30, 2001 at 20:32:09:
Jerry, You are the reason this board exists. Those of us who have experienced MAZE know how important and helpful it is to tap into the experience of others who went through the MAZE. I personally talked to about 12 people who had the MAZE and also made trip to Washington, DC to visit with Dr. Cox who developed the MAZE procedure. One of the questions I had for Dr. Cox was if the MAZE would help my frequent pac's and pvc's. He clearly stated no, MAZE will not cure pac's and pvc's. I still have these. All MAZE will do is cure AFIB. As I understand it 30% of people with AFIB also have sick sinus syndrome and will need a pace maker after surgery. I did not know going into surgery if I would fall into this catagory but understood if I had this condition I would soon need a pace maker anyway. As it turned out I did not need a pace maker. I have been in sinus rhythm since surgery 9/99 done by Dr. Duncan at St. Lukes in Houston. At times my heart will beat faster than normal. For this reason I take a low dosage of atenolol. I had this problem before surgery also (my parents had similar heart problems). No one can tell you what you should do. We can only share with you our experience. I am thankful for MAZE. Life is better for me. My best wishes to you, John Gross