Posted by John Salamone on May 03, 2001 at 14:41:14:
In Reply to: Re: MAZE complications posted by Terry on May 03, 2001 at 14:39:30:
Angie:
I am 32 years old and had the Maze procedure just over 1 year ago at the Cleveland Clinic. Unfortunately, this was not my first surgery. I was born with a congenital heart defect and had my first surgery at age 7. I am an athlete and have played soccer my entire life (including college and beyond.)
As far as complications with the maze procedure, the most difficult part for me was the mental aspects before the surgery. As far as the surgery goes, I was discharged 6 days after it and missed about 5 weeks of work. I did have atrial tachycardia for about a week, but that went away with medication. 4 months after my surgery I was off all medication and in September (less than six months after my surgery), I was back on the soccer field!
Contemplating open heart surgery is a big deal. For me the maze procedure was the right thing because I had an enlarged left atrium due to a leaky mitral valve (which was repaired) and I was in chronic a-fib. I consider myself lucky and am thankful for Dr. McCarthy and the entire staff in Cleveland.
Take this information for what it is worth and remember, this is a decision you have to make and be comfortable with. I hope this information is helpful.
Best of luck-
John Salamone