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BULLETIN #2 ON RENA Tuesday, August 13, 1996 To all, You are all aware of the electrophysiological ablation (for cardiac arrhythmia) which Rena had a week ago. The initial results were spectacular as the arrythmia disappeared. Sadly, however, yesterday, the arryhthmia rec urred (probably the result of insufficient heat energy applied to the abnormal area), and Rena had several "passing out" spells again last night, during, of all things, her 19th birthday party. She was seen by the doctor this morning and the recurrence confirmed (occurs in 5% of cases). She was temporarily placed back on medications (Digoxin and a Beta Blocker) and it appears that the ablation procedure will have to be repeated. We are told that the repeat procedure will be somewhat less stressful than the first procedure, because the location of the abnormal area is now known, and repeat "mapping" will not be necessary. It will, however, require another puncture across the septum of the heart, this because the area of abnormality is on the left side. Suggested dates (sooner rather than later) are August 21 and 28; and, although Rena right now is in denial and doesn't want to have the procedure repeated, there is really no choice and I am going to try and convince her to "go for" the 21st. This will give her a chance to recuperate before the start of college (August 28). I have decided to take off from my practice tomorrow so that I can spend time w ith Rena discussing this situation and also to give her the emotional support that she needs. So, we are not yet "finished" with this problem. We all again ask for your prayers and thoughts. I will keep you all posted and again, please forgive the "form letter" nature of this post. Best, Bob -- ******************************************************** Robert A. Fink, M. D., F.A.C.S. Phone: 510-849-2555 Neurological Surgery FAX: 510-849-2557 2500 Milvia Street Suite 222 Berkeley, California 94704-2636 USA E-Mail: [log in to unmask] World Wide Web: <http://www.dovecom.com/rafink/> CompuServe: 72303,3442 America Online: BobFink "Ex Tristitia Virtus" ********************************************************