Wolfe mini-maze post op reports

[Guest guest]

Hello to all,

Back in June I posted some information on my Wolfe Mini Maze

procedure done in land and asked the group for reports on their

experiences. Apparently not many people have not had this procedure

(warning: dark thought coming) or perhaps they did not survive?

The main issues I have after nearly three months recuperation is that

I still experience fluid in my left lung (comes and goes) chest pain,

chest tightness, and shortness of breath. I have gone to the

emergency room three times since early June and no one seems to be

able to pin down the cause. Last night I suddenly (within a matter of

hours) developed a swelling under my left breast and this time the ER

doctor ordered a CT scan. Nothing wrong that they could see, but

since I am on Warfarin the slightest hint of something going amiss is

alarming. I just hope MedicareA or my group insurance is going to

pay for all these visits to the ER.

My internist/cardiologist assures me I am not having heart attacks

and gave me a stress echo test last month that did not turn up

anything. My pre-op tests included an angiogram and he is satisfied I

do not have arterial blockage problems.

Although cardiac problems have been ruled out I don't have a

diagnosis or treatment plan. The pain last month was quite severe,

but Naproxyn shooed it away. The pain last night and actually for

several days has moved away from the center of my chest, is less

intense, and occurs under my left breast where the swelling has taken

place.

aside note: the maze procedure did not " cure " my AF, but I now have

atrial flutter according to two cardio specialists. Am I going in the

right direction?

People mention " touch up procedures " . If that is indicated for me

would I most likely have a catheter ablation?

Two cardiologists have told me I need to have another cardioversion,

but my current doctor is not in favor of this. It seems these

procedures seldom produce long term effects.

Any insight the group members can share with me would be very

welcome.

Regards,

Rich