Posted by Terry Gann on August 17, 2002 at 11:15:31:
In Reply to: MVP & AFib posted by Mike Ware on August 17, 2002 at 08:12:52:
Mike,
I had MVP and had my mitral valve repaired at the same time I had the Maze procedure. My sister had no problems with her mitral valve, but had a-fib occurences as much as I did. I'm not sure if MVP can cause a-fib. I believe that MVP can contribute to an increase in premature beats, and these can lead to a-fib if they occur at just the right time.
When my sister and I went to the Cleveland Clinic, we were first evaluated by a cardiologist, Dr. Hammer. He discussed the treatment options with us including ablation and the Maze, and then wee met with Dr. McCarthy who talked with us about the Maze. I was actually not going to have surgery at that point - it was only when I found out my mitral valve was in need of repair that I decided to go ahead with it. I found Dr. Hammer to be very open-minded and receptive to working with us whatever our decision about treatment options, and Dr. McCarthy, as well.
We all understand your begin tired of dealing with a-fib; we've been there. It's so nice to be able to "trust" your heart to beat normally and not to worry about when your heart might go into a-fib and disrupt normal living.
Good luck! Keep us informed.
Terry