Posted by Pat McCarthy(not the doc!!) on April 07, 2002 at 17:33:26:
In Reply to: Help - Concerned Mazer and Dr. Razavi posted by Tim Hawkins on April 07, 2002 at 10:02:44:
Tim:
I had my maze at the CC by Dr.McCarthy (8/00)...all was going very well until day 2 post-op..I began to expeirence mild a-fib upon exertion. However, (like you), I had a very hard time getting any sleep in the hospital..probably a total of 3-4 hours since the surgery...So, I think I was on the verge of exhaustion. Anyway, my doctor (cardio) was Dr. Roger Miller and he ordered NORPACE, I cant remember the exact dosage. I do recall thinking that it was FAR too much for me because I had been on it prior to surgery and had learned how to manage the dosage. HOwever, Dr. Miller is not open to any patient input. I knew from my own experience that if the dosage was TOO high, it would trigger a-fib. I ended up switching cariologists because I didnt like Miller's attitude and I was told that many patients have a problem with him. I was then assigned Dr. Razavi...he had an arrogant attitude and made comments about the maze which I found unsettling ...I don't recall the specifics, but I was left with the impression that he sort of thrived on coming in and playing 'clean-up' after Dr. McCarthy. I can't recall exact time frames, but I think it was about day 10 that they got me under control (w/rhythmol), and I continued to take it for 6 months post-op. I have been in NSR since discharge (which was on day 13). Dr. McCarthy will probably recall that it was a real struggle to get me in rhythm. His staff was great and very supportive during the process--esp. Barb Eli, his cardiac nurse.
My advice: don't get overly excited by comments like this...Look to the board and listen to those who have 'been there, done that'...You will hear the facts ....Each story is different and most of us have had BUMPS in the road to some degree. I, personally, will be forever greatful to Dr. Cox for taking this condition seriously enough to develop the procedure and to Dr. McCarthy and the CC for giving me my life back. Hopefully, you will be in the VAST majority who will be saying the VERY same thing in the very near future!!