Posted by Jack Drum on February 23, 2003 at 15:26:50:
In Reply to: Post Maze Atrial Kick posted by Brian Clement on February 23, 2003 at 12:43:20:
Brian, only a good cardiologist can probably tell you of all the ramifications of what a "less than normal atrial kick", would mean. I don't think this is a side effect of the surgery, but in some cases it might be. Each individual responds in their own unique way to the maze.
When the atrial is not pumping normal, the blood can pool, and cause a clot, usually in the left atrial appendage. In the maze, they normally remove the atrial appendages. which greatly lessens the chance of a stroke. I would think that if your ejection faction is satisfactory, the less than normal pumping of the atria will not really mean a big lot.
Best of luck Brian, and keep us advised to what you find out, and how things are going.