Convergent Procedure

Posted by allen4501 @allen4501, Oct 12, 2021

After 2 ablations, 5 cardioversions and a final and failed attempt of using Tikosyn, my EP has asked if I would consider this new hybrid approach towards treating a-fib. It is becoming increasingly accepted at numerous hospitals with very positive results. However, Mayo has been taking a conservative approach towards using, which I understand and appreciate.

The procedure is in two phases and termed "convergent" in doing so. The first is conducted by a cardiothoracic surgeon performing a minimally invasive epicardial ablation using a radiofrequency catheter on the outside of the heart. The second is the traditional internal version conducted by the EP. Plenty of articles and videos are out there for the details on the mechanics of why this is working and how performed. From all my research, it does make sense, especially for my persistent version. Given this, and my comfort level with Mayo, I've elected to proceed. Hopefully, I will have all this completed by the end of the year and will keep you posted.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Heart Rhythm Conditions Support Group.

jonna63 | @jonna63 | Jun 18, 2022

Hi @allen451. I am considering the Convergent procedure under the advice of my EP. Your former posts have made the procedure seem like a breeze and I sure hope you are still doing well. My EP said it was a rough procedure so any information about your experience during and after your hospital stay would be greatly appreciated.

Amanda Burnett | @amandaa | Jun 19, 2022

Hi @jonna63 and welcome! I added the @ symbol for @allen451 so he could respond. I'd also like to introduce you to @lizzy102, @mozziegirl, and @lmurray03 who have discussed it.
What specifically did your EP share that made the surgery a rough one?

lizzy102 | @lizzy102 | Jun 20, 2022

I’m going to Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland location, for the first phase (and hoping that it solves the problem) in early July. Will do my best to keep this space updated.

jonna63 | @jonna63 | Jun 20, 2022

In reply to @amandaa "Hi @jonna63 and welcome! I added the @ symbol for @allen451 so he could respond. I'd..." + (show)

He didn’t go in to any particulars, I assumed it was the recovery after. I should probably ask him.

jonna63 | @jonna63 | Jul 3, 2022

In reply to @lizzy102 "I’m going to Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland location, for the first phase (and hoping that it solves..." + (show)

Best of luck on your upcoming procedure. Please keep us posted

jenrev | @jenrev | Jul 4, 2022

Allen, good luck. Please let us know how this goes. I have had more ablations thank you have and have tried all the medications. I am currently more or less stable on amiodarone. This convergent procedure has been recommended to me as "the next step" by my EP at Brigham & Women's in Boston. I am interested in learning more. Be well. Jennifer

lizzy102 | @lizzy102 | Jul 4, 2022

Thank you for your kind wishes. The 8th is the big day! I’ll let y’all know how it went after we return home. Liz

lizzy102 | @lizzy102 | Jul 24, 2022

Gosh, did things turn out differently than anyone thought. I went in the first day for tests, including an echocardiogram. Next day after I was prepped for going down to the ablation suite (IV in, shaved) my EP appears with the entire ablation team! The echo from the day before had revealed a badly damaged mitral valve. The team (4 MD, 2 PA, techs and nurses) said they believed the A-Fib would go away if the valve was replaced. It was an open discussion that included my wife and I.
I’m scheduled for open heart surgery to replace the valve (it is shredded, not repairable), have the MAZE procedure and close up the left atrial appendage next month.
Wow, what a surprise and what a journey this is!

allen4501 | @allen4501 | Apr 2 3:19pm

Hello everyone,

For some odd reason (busy, life, etc...!) I have not logged into this board for some time and my apologies for not responding to those of you asking how I'm doing.

Thankfully, the convergent procedure has been a success, from the external ablation of the left atrial chamber in 12/21 and an internal cryo touchup in 3/22. No bleeps or palpitations since 🙂

I'm sure Mayo has conducted many more of these procedures since then and if you are in persistent AF, please approach your EP on the possbilities.

soozierules | @soozierules | Jun 28 5:35am

Hi....I am just becoming a member of this support group. Could you please tell me how your Convergent procedure worked our for you? Was it successful?
Im told i need to have one.

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