[Cheers]

It sounds like with this stereotaxis, that the risks and recovery are much lower. The patient stories are pretty reassuring. But again...there is always a chance. And going thru the arteries like that, there is always risk of clots - another huge fear.

So this wont be a decision made lightly. The technology can only get better, right?? I will be interested in seeing what these holter results will say. Espeically since this is the best time (worst time, but best time) to have it on. More info will help me make the choice for sure!!

[dr461]

She's pushing it for one reason--she doesn't make money if she doesn't do it. I'd get a second, third, and fourth opinion, and then discuss it with a cardiologist I trusted a lot.

[Cheers]

LOL. I don't know how to find a Cardio (or any Doc besides my GP) that I trust a lot. I don't even know if that is possible.

I will say that I have heard from some people I know who have had them who say they have gotten their lives back...and that sounds super appealing to me. Appealing enough for the risks?? I dunno. But yea...more opinions are DEFINITELY in my near future. Do you agree about seeing a Cardio instead of only EPs? Its kinda like the thought behind Orthos always wanting to do knee replacements, etc. Specialists always seem eager to preform their special surgeries, dont they?

[DaniRae]

Yes I agree with seeing a straight cardio in addition to the electrophysiologist. Both my cardio and electrophysiologist said ablation wasn't an option.

[Cheers]

How do you know if a cardio is straight or gay?



Sorry. I couldn't resist. Clearly, I am tired lol

[CMoore416]

While this is not related to th heart it's an example of how specialists are. I have had had a thyroid condition (Graves Disease/hyperthyroidism) for the last 15 years. Over those years I've seen many thyroid "specialists" My favorite and longest Endocrinologist was awesome and was always about trying the least invasive thing first. He suggested meds since easiest. It worked for me and I am currently in remission. During the last 5 years my dr went on leave twice for an extended amount of time (went back to India) and I was given a replacement dr. I went through a few - as each one had a different idea of what I needed. One told me I would never recover (HA!!!!!) and I should just kill my thyroid off with radiation and take a replacement hormone for life as it was "safer." I requested a new one after that and then that one suggested same thing (endos like to push RAI which is radiation killing of the gland which ends up making less maintenance with patient long term. However the effects are not easy on patient. My current Endo whom I dislike as well, says I won't stay in remission. Way to be positive! I found out my old awesome Endo isn't fully retired so I plan on getting back in with him. He is all about suggesting stress free living and staying positive!!

Anyway I know I rambled on but somewhere I was trying to say that some drs will just push the surgeries, procedures etc because that's just their "go to" answers. Find a dr who suggests the "best" option and weighs all the options with you as well

[STARFIREY2K]

Just a quick note, I had the same procedure in august 2010, I am diabetic, the diagnose was made based upon me wearing a halter for 30 days, I recorded every event. I was scared also, but could not go on, wonder if they were going to stop, slow down etc....it got the best of me. and my doc explained everything in the procedure and what would take place.
I had the ablation done, I have NEVER had another event since that day. all docs are different, and follow different methods...I am VERY happy that I made the decision to have it done. I understand there are risks involved as is with any procedure. I do agree with the second opinion and you should have one done for your peace of mind. good luck and hope all works out well for you.

[Cheers]

Starfire - may I ask what your symptoms were and how often?

The more i think about this, the more I am wondering if my electrophysiologist really is trying to push me into something I do not need. While I have heard great stories of ablations...they are all from ppl who have had multiple visits to the ER with rates 200 or more. I havent had an episode like that in over 8 years. (knocking on wood)...

I am confused, frustrated and annoyed.