Answers Finally!

Hello! I am happy to report that my doctor's appointment yesterday went well. After 2 failed sinus node modifications and an ablation for a SNRT, my doctor has decided that a complete sinus node ablation is the only thing left to do. We have exhausted all meds to control my tachy and he feels that this will take care of it once and for all.
I am a little apprehensive about having my sinus node totally wiped out and being 100% dependant on my pacemaker. I know that there are several of you out there who do just fine, but I am a worrier!
The procedure is not scheduled until the 25th of November...Happy Thanksgiving to me! My doctor wanted me to be his first case of the day so that he would have a fresh and open mind during the procedure. I am greatly appreciative of his consideration, but that leaves me with nearly 4 weeks to think about it!
I also wanted to thank everyone that has kept me in their thoughts and prayers. I have been praying for an answer for quite a while now and have requested many times that you pray for me. Well, God revealed Himself to me in a very real way yesterday and I am so thankful. He really does answer prayers!!!

Amanda

8 Comments

Good Luck

by Angelie - 2008-10-30 05:10:03

I have to admit that I cringed a bit when you said that he stated "that he wanted you to be the first case of the day so that he would have a fresh and open mind during the procedure".
When I had my pacemaker implanted, I was an add on for the next day. I didn't get my pacer until 8PM. I was SO thankful that they all stayed overtime just for me. I would think that your doctor should have the confidence in himself to be able to have a "fresh" mind no matter what time of the day. I'm sure he's wonderful, and I don't mean to scare you or anything. It just seems like an odd thing to say to a patient- especially a self proclaimed worrier.
It's a blessing that you have 4 weeks to get used to the idea of a pacemaker. This time will give you time to learn all about them (pros, cons, recovery, implantation, restrictions, daily life with them, etc). It will also give you the chance to meet all of us before the actually implant. Come implant time, you shouldn't have any surprises. Some people here get blindsighted with pacemaker / ICD implant and they have no time to prepare themselves for it. I can't imagine how that must feel. I joined this group about a month before my implant, and I don't know what I would have done without these guys.
I've lived with tachycardia all of my life, had 3 ablations, a sinus node modification and for right now am being treated with a pacemaker and a heavy dose of Toprol.
It's great to meet you, look forward to staying in touch, and don't worry.......you'll do great, and be a wonderful addition to the website here.

Bless you,
Angelie

Anglie

by scadnama - 2008-10-30 06:10:13

Thank you for your sweet message. I guess I should have made myself a little clearer...I have had my pacemaker for almost a year now. It was implanted for NCS and SSS, over the last few months I have developed IST. I pace at about 60% right now, but the thought of fully relying on my pacemaker is a little scary!

Amanda

You will do great!

by aldeer - 2008-10-30 07:10:02

AMANDA.... it really is great being the first patient of the day. I am also one of those worriers, so I spent my time waiting trying to learn all I could about it. The Cleveland Heart Center has so much information, and you can have a one on one chat with the nurses online about any concerns. I have lived with a-fib for about 11 years(MANY different meds, had a failed ablation, so the last was the a-vnode ablation, complete heart block, and pacemaker. I am on Coreg CR and feel just great. It was done Aug 07 and it does take a little time and patience, but you will not be sorry and will be very glad when it is all over. Lots of good luck to you and you will be in my thoughts & prayers... with love, aldeer

... wish you just the best :-)

by mikki14 - 2008-10-30 09:10:41

Hi Amanda,

I had 5 ablations - of SA node, AV node etc. After the SA node ablation my atriums are still running from 120-250 BPM, which is really a lot with sinus node ablation. But my ventricules are dependant on my PM, because of complete AV block (AV node ablation).

Take care of yourself and I wish you just the best!

Everything will be good ;-).

With love, Misa

Morning surgery vs. afternoon

by ted - 2008-10-31 01:10:45

We all wish you well. I'm just curious whether there has any scientific study to decide whether early morning surgery results in a better outcome than a surgery performed in the afternoon or evening? There used to be a rumor years ago that an automobile assembled on a monday was more likely to be a lemon because the auto worker was more likely to be hung over on a monday. Also, on Friday, the worker would be more tired. I did have a morning surgery by doctor who was hung over and I'm still suffering.

Ablation

by janetinak - 2008-10-31 03:10:25

Hi Amanda,

I am a worrier but got so sick & tired of constant Afib despite very high doses of meds & trying every new med that came out & 5-6 cardioversions w/o any changes. So after 2 years I got an AV node ablation (must admit it had to be done twice, a month apart) & I felt great after the 1st but my Afib was overridding my new PM & has some slight SOB so done again & for good as it turns out as it has been 8 years this month.I am on no meds except Coumadin & as you stated still in Afib & paced 100% in ventricles. As I have become more active have had a few adjustments & on my 2nd PM now.

I am not sorry I did it & feel great. Lots of other aches & pains but from Arthritis/Tendinitis not the PM nor Afib.

My surgery was done the 1st one of the day both times & altho I am not a morning person my EP is a doll & seems to be bright eyed & bushy tailed as they used to say any time of day, but I don't think time makes much difference. Doc's seem to have a massive amount of energy & do things most of us wouldn't even think about trying any time of the day. hah!

Good luck & I am sure you will be fine. Our thoughts will be with you but think how much better you will feel soon.

Janet

Good luck!!

by bini - 2008-11-01 08:11:56

Hi Amanda,
It's been so long since I have been on this website! I have been wondering how things are going with you!
I wish you the best during your procedure...and I will be praying for you!

Christine

Finally!

by tcrabtree85 - 2008-11-03 09:11:01

Amanda,
I am so happy for you my sister. I know its weird to think you will be without a SA Node but guess what if I can live without mine so can you. We have some stories and thats what life is about.
This experience that you are going through is going to be used by God. Rest at peace knowing that he has you wrapped in his arms.
I think of you often Amanda and am always a phone call away, or any other way.
Oh I may be coming to your area soon so we will have to talk soon.

Blessings and love,
Tammy

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Since I got my pacemaker, I don't pass out anymore! That's a blessing in itself.