Is a second ablation advisable if the AFib is controlled by flecainide

Posted by mrgaddy @mrgaddy, Feb 11 10:28pm

I have a history of AFib. A few months after an ablation the AFib returned after I did some heavy exercise (swimming race). My doctor put me on flecainide which controlled the AFib. After experiencing a lot of fatigue, I asked the Dr. if I could stop flecainide. Within days I went back into AFib and going back on flecainide didn't completely control it. After some months I scheduled a second ablation but some weeks after scheduling it the AFib was again under control. Does it seem to make sense to get the ablation anyway or should I be content with being under control with flecainide? I still have time to cancel the procedure. Anybody have similar experiences?

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@teacher2001

I am on Sotalol for AFib and I still get palpitations - reason why I’m scheduled for an ablation. I haven’t heard about Flecainide - is it the same type of beta blocker or more effective than Sotalol? - I would like to discuss with my cardiologist.

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As I understand it, both drugs are antiarrhythmics and required 3-day inpatient loading. Dofetilide is rhythm control [for AF and flutter] and Sotalol is rate and rhythm.

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@woodside

As I understand it, both drugs are antiarrhythmics and required 3-day inpatient loading. Dofetilide is rhythm control [for AF and flutter] and Sotalol is rate and rhythm.

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Thank you!

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After two years of paroxysmal Afib I decided to go for PFA. Yes, it may have been wise to wait until the technology matured a little more, but I figured at my age 75+ I didn't have the luxury of waiting a few more years. Plus, all my research indicated that PFA was at least as efficacious as radio frequency ablation. Plus, given that Afib is progressive, delaying ablation might lessen the chances for success. Plus I hate taking medications.

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