The following story recounts the experience of one patient who has received an AMPLATZER® device. Bear in mind that results may vary, and may not be typical for all users.
In July 2005, I experienced atrial fibrillation for about 30 minutes. In November 2005, I again had A-fib for an hour with really elevated blood pressure and went to the emergency room. After several days of testing, the echocardiogram showed the atrial septal defect. All other tests, including a nuclear stress test, were negative.
I was 65 at the time and had been very athletic all my life without any shortness of breath or any other symptoms except the recent A-fibs. No doctor, at any time in all my years, had ever heard a murmur or anything they were suspicious of, nor did anything ever show up on an EKG. I am a retired dentist and was aware of signs and symptoms and had several patients over the years that had similar problems. My cardiologist suggested open-heart surgery and even checked the coronary arteries as any blockage could be fixed at the same time as the ASD. Fortunately, the arteries were clear.
I searched the Internet and discovered non-surgical repair. My doctors did the procedure at Brackenridge Hospital in Austin, Texas. I was 65 at the time. The post-op recovery was very easy and not painful. Some soreness, but nothing that required strong pain medication. Of course, I had complete anesthesia during the procedure. They did not want me to drive, exert myself, or lift objects for two weeks. There were no sutures to remove. I was very impressed with the postop experience.
I do have to take Coumadin the rest of my life for the atrial fibrillation. The Coumadin helps reduce the risk of a clot thrown during an atrial fibrillation occurrence.
Although I was not aware of shortness of breath, I do feel that I am not as winded as before, especially when I walk the dogs in the mountains of New Mexico. A friend thought my facial coloration was "rosier" than before, although my wife, family, and I have not noticed it. Finally, I am thoroughly pleased with the procedure and the product. The thought of having open-heart surgery, with the potential complications of recovery, makes me extremely delighted about the AMPLATZER® product.
I have been retired since January 2006. My hobbies are photography, refinishing antiques, and tinkering.
– Jim