Posted by Jack Drum on October 24, 2002 at 23:39:46:
In Reply to: Need to make a decision posted by Bob Evans on October 24, 2002 at 16:58:51:
Bob, I'm glad you found the board OK.
As I said in my mail, it was the maze that cured me, and I am partial to the documented results of it. Even though the PVA's are now having a lot better result than just a year or so ago, I still think if a CURE, is the bottom line, then the Maze is the way to go.
Although I was not looking forward to the surgery, I was looking forward to the end of all my problems I had endured with AF. I had just about reached the end of my line, and I really went into surgery with the thought of a cure and looking forward to what lay ahead. I have not been disappointed with the end result, or really any part of the maze.
I had my surgery on a Friday morning, spent the night in recovery, (no room in ICU). Sat. morning they moved me into a regular room, and one of the rehab nurses took me for a walk before putting me in bed. I went home on Wed. morning and except for a couple little bumps in the road, I had a good recovery.
I am now 4 years 6+ months post maze, and I feel better now than I had for the previous 20 years prior to my surgery. Besides the poor quality of life with the AF, I had encountered sever side effects from the medication the last several years. Being free of the AF, and all the medication made life worth living again.
I probably had a easier time with the maze than some, but this is a brief history of my maze story. I'm sure some of the others will fill you in on theirs.
Best wishes and prayers for what ever you decide, and we will try to offer any help we can.