Posted by Mike Ware on January 12, 2004 at 07:28:47:
In Reply to: PVI Ablation that went BAD posted by Pete on January 11, 2004 at 21:50:18:
Pete, that's a pretty scary story. I think your experience is why most cardiologists recommend against having afib cured by a Maze or ablation procedure. They hear a horror story like this in their state and then assume that's typical. In fact, when done by inexperienced doctors, outcomes like yours may well be a frequent occurrence.
Remember that besides the doctor doing the procedure, there needs to be an experienced supporting staff of nurses and technicians helping the doctor. Also, if something does go wrong, it's nice to have some of the top doctors and surgeons in the world already in the hospital to save you. It is for these reasons, many on this board strongly recommend Cleveland Clinic for afib cures. There may be other places just as good, but at least we know for sure that CC is good. If you can work out a deal with your insurance, you should strongly consider CC as your next option.
We will be pulling for you no matter what you decide. Keep us posted on your progress and all the best to you!
M.
P.S. Having been cured of afib by Dr Natale doing a PVI, I respectfully disagree with Henry that the Maze is the only way to go. A PVI is piece of cake compared to the Maze when done properly, but of course, the probability of success is a lower with a single PVI. Overall, when done at CC, the risks associated with a PVI are very minimal.
- Re: PVI Ablation that went BAD Pete 08:21:51 1/12/2004 (0)