Posted by Anne Rowthorn on May 15, 2004 at 18:36:27:
In Reply to: Post PVI at the C.C. posted by Chris Muscato on May 13, 2004 at 01:59:14:
Dear Chris,
Carl answered your question about stenosis. All I'd add is that Dr. Natale at the CC says there is only a 2% chance of developing it.
AS far as your energy level is concerned, don't worry. Your energy will come back and also don't be surprised if you get some minor bouts of a-fib, PACs and PVCs. These are normal for the first three months' recovery period. I had a PVI/ablation (both)January 20 after going into a-fib a year after my maze.
If you get any beats out of place, just use the monitor they gave you at the CC. I called them a lot at first, sometimes 3-4 times in a day. Now almost 4 months after the procedure, things are fine. Well almost. Dr. Natale said PVIs are tricky with maze people and that although he thinks the procedure was successful, I'd have to wait another 2-3 months to be able to really feel secure. Personally I feel good and have all my energy back and I feel as if the procedure has worked. I just got back from a strenuous hike this afternoon in 87 degree weather. A week after the procedure I'd walk a half mile and feel it.
If the CC can be faulted I think they could let people know that following a PVI one doesn't necessarily get all one's energy back right away, and that the 3 month recovery peoiod is just that--a time for all those scars to heal. Saying that, I also feel that having what I'd hate to say was a failed maze, that the CC gave me a second chance at enjoying sinus rhythm without beta blockers or anti-arrhythmics and I am very grateful for that.
Good luck to you, Chris, and please keep us posted as to how things go for you.