It has been 1 & 1/2 years since my Aortic Valve was replaced, my Mytril Valve was repaired and a Double By-Pass at Mt. Sinai Hospital in NYC. I just have to ...Read more
It has been 1 & 1/2 years since my Aortic Valve was replaced, my Mytril Valve was repaired and a Double By-Pass at Mt. Sinai Hospital in NYC. I just have to say that everything is just perfect with me now. I have no more heart murmur, my mytril valve regurgitation is at a extream minimum and my heart muscle is getting pleanty of oxygenated blood again due to the Bypasses. The nasty scar on my chest is just barely noticeable now and I can walk fast several miles without out any shortness of breath or getting tired anymore. My Edwards Inspiri Resila, Aortic Tissue Valve replacement has been fantastic choice for me and has been working perfectly so far since my surgery on 06/25/2018. As my cardiologist just told me at my last visit, "Your Heart Just Loves Your New Valve".
Went to the Cardiologist today and recieved great news, my heart is beating strong and continues to sounds perfect. The Doctor looked at my Reveal Link Monitor ...Read more
Went to the Cardiologist today and recieved great news, my heart is beating strong and continues to sounds perfect. The Doctor looked at my Reveal Link Monitor Download (I have had the Reveal link monitor installed under the skin over my heart since February 2017) and I have not had anymore A-Fib events since my August 21 one time event. So in 6 months when I revisit my cardiologist again and I have no more A-Fib events he is going to again give me another Echo Cardiogram. If all is continuing to be good with my heart, the Dr. will take me off the blood thinner Xarelto and just put me back on the Aspirin a day regiment.
I am finished with my cardiac rehab, and now I just take my daily 1 1/2 mile a day walk. I feel so much better now than before my surgey, it is like night and day the difference. Before I would get out of breath so quickly and have chest & arm pain with just minor exertion and now I walk at a fast pace during that 1-1/2 mile walk and still feel like I can do another mile. Heart & Valve Disease sneaks up on you and it takes years for it to effect your quality of life, but when you have the problems fixed you really do have your life back again. I can not thank enough Dr. Adams and his fantastic surgical team at Mount Siani Hospital for giving me a second chance at life.
Dan Vechiola Great report John. Keep up the great work. You are right about 2nd chances it definitely changes ou ... Read more
Dan Vechiola Great report John. Keep up the great work. You are right about 2nd chances it definitely changes our perspective on things. I used to follow you on here when I first signed on to this website because you were going through what I was about to go through and I appreciated your journal entries. I am 7 weeks post op and its great to hear how you are doing.
Debbie Chatzky Great to read you are doing well. Is the under the skin monitor a pace maker?
Susan Lynn Awesome update, John! What a great testimonial for those in the waiting room and those who are rec ... Read more
Susan Lynn Awesome update, John! What a great testimonial for those in the waiting room and those who are recovering. Quality of life really does improve. Continued success! â¤
John Lant Debbie, the reveal link monitor just records your heartbeat. This was installed about a year and a ha ... Read more
John Lant Debbie, the reveal link monitor just records your heartbeat. This was installed about a year and a half before my heart surgery to remotely monitor my heart because of my previous abnormal heart beat.
John Lant Dan, I am glad you are also doing well after your surgery. This site put together by Adam has diffina ... Read more
John Lant Dan, I am glad you are also doing well after your surgery. This site put together by Adam has diffinatly helped all of us Pre-surgery & Post Surgery by giving us the knowledge that that we are not alone in this. Like most folks here, I was scared and emotional facing my surgery. But by reading the stories from other folks who went through it brought me a peace of mind that made the entire process much easier to go through. Yes, we are Heart Warriors now and I wear my scar on my chest proudly.
Well it has been 3 months, 3 days since my OHS on June 25th. The surgery that I had done was to replace my Aortic Valve, Repair my Mytral Valve & CABG x2. ...Read more
Well it has been 3 months, 3 days since my OHS on June 25th. The surgery that I had done was to replace my Aortic Valve, Repair my Mytral Valve & CABG x2. Other than the A-Fib event I had on Aug 21, I have been doing great. I go to cardiac rehab 3 times a week and I am doing extreamly well. I love doing the treadmill and it seems like I can go for miles. I no longer lose my breath walking fast and my heart feels so good and strong again. Having this critical surgery was a blessing for me because of how good it turned out. The scar on my chest which I call my "Red Badge of Courage" is healing well, my chest does not hurt at all (it never really hurt that bad even right after surgey) but I still do experience a numbness on the upper left side of my chest, but that does not bother me at all.
So all you folks waiting for your open heart surgery date to come, we been there and done that. So we know what your going through, feel free to ask your questions and read the other folks Journal to get an idea of what they went through, both before and after heart surgery. All I can say it that "GOD HAS BEEN GOOD TO ME" during my journey. Just keep your faith in God and your doctor and you too will weather the storm of your fears & anxiety. I wish everyone of my Heart Surgery brothers & sisters my very best in Health, Happyness & Love. So move forward with your new & healthier lives and look back at this life changing experience in a good light and wear your "Red Badge of Courage" proudly.
Dan Vechiola so awesome to hear John! Glad you are feeling good!
Terry Goin Thank you so much for taking time to post this inspiring message. 11/06/18 seems so far away.
LINDA ROBERTS Glad things are going so well for you. Keep up the good work.
Louanna Miller Great to hear things are going so well. Continue to heal.
Rickky Kumar I m so happy reading your story john's
Rickky Kumar Great but after surgery can u hear some clicking sound.
John Lant Rickky, I have the Edwards Inspire Resila Aortic Tissue Valve replacement & it makes No sound at all. ... Read more
John Lant Rickky, I have the Edwards Inspire Resila Aortic Tissue Valve replacement & it makes No sound at all. My heart sounds just as quiet as a normally beating heart would.
I was doing so well with my recovery these past 8 weeks post opt. But on Monday, I woke up as usual and I noticed my heart beating funny. I then walked into ...Read more
I was doing so well with my recovery these past 8 weeks post opt. But on Monday, I woke up as usual and I noticed my heart beating funny. I then walked into the kitchen to take my daily dose of Metoprolol 100mg which I did and my heart was just fluttering in my chest. I told my wife that I think I am having an A-Fib event and we better go to the Hospital Emergency Room to have it checked out.
We arrived at the hospital and my heart was beating Irregular and fast, the doctors immediately brought me into the cardiac care section and hooked me up to the heart monitor's. They also gave me a EKG and drew blood from my arm to send to the lab. The doctor told me that I am having a A-Fib event and they hooked up a IV line in my arm and started giving me medicine to regulate my heart beat again. Within 30 min I felt my heart start to slow down and the Irregular heart beat get better. Within about hour my heart was beating normally again. They monitored me for several more hours and I was feeling so much better emotionally and physically. The ER doctor was in contact with my Cardiologist & he called me to explain that this can happen with heart surgery patients. He also prescribed a blood thinner for me to take Xarelto to prevent me from having a stroke if I should ever have an A-Fib event again. I see my cardiologist next week to see why this happened and hopefully an adjustment of medication will prevent this from happening again.
Has anyone here experienced the same type of event as I just experienced?
Nancy LeClair Gottlieb I had Afib in late May. I had procedure called cardioversion. I didn't come out on my own. They pu ... Read more
Nancy LeClair Gottlieb I had Afib in late May. I had procedure called cardioversion. I didn't come out on my own. They put me on warfarin and a couple of other meds. I'm having a Mitral Valve repair the end of September. The surgeon feels the repair will take care of the afib. I haven't gone back into afib since they converted me back. Spent 3 days in the hospital. My heart was almost at 200 when the EMTs came. I assume you had surgery already. They said I couldn't take xarelto.
Adam Pick Hi John, Here's a video to help you learn more about atrial fibrillation after heart surgery - https: ... Read more
https://www.Heart-Valve-Surgery.com - Learn important facts about atrial fibrillation (Afib) after heart surgery from Dr. Marc Gillinov, Chair of Cardiac Sur...
LINDA ROBERTS sorry to hear that , John. Found the video very helpful on atrial fib.
Dan Vechiola Glad to hear you feeling better John. You did the right thing. Hang in there. Based on this video ... Read more
Dan Vechiola Glad to hear you feeling better John. You did the right thing. Hang in there. Based on this video you should see this going away very soon. Thanks for posting the video Adam it was very helpful.
Rose Madura I had issues with A fib and Aflutter. Within six weeks, they were gone and I've had no more issues. ... Read more
Rose Madura I had issues with A fib and Aflutter. Within six weeks, they were gone and I've had no more issues. I'm sorry you had this happen again. It is scary and I'm glad you went to the hospital. I wish you well for the future - no more A fib.
John Lant Thank you Adam for posting the link for the video. Hopefully this was just a one time event, but I re ... Read more
John Lant Thank you Adam for posting the link for the video. Hopefully this was just a one time event, but I really thought I was not going to experience this A fib event because I have been doing great for the first 8 weeks post opt. I can only hope that whatever caused this scary event is now in the past and when I see my cardiologist next week, I need to ask why this happened so long after my surgery and do I still need to be on a blood thinner for the rest of my life..
I cannot believe it has been 8 weeks since my heart surgery (Aortic Vave Replacement, Mytral Valve Repair & Double Bypass) I am really starting to feel like ...Read more
I cannot believe it has been 8 weeks since my heart surgery (Aortic Vave Replacement, Mytral Valve Repair & Double Bypass) I am really starting to feel like I felt 10 years ago. No more shortness of breath and my stamina has also increased. I attend Cardiac rehab 3 times a week and I walk about a mile on the treadmill. I ride 5 miles on the stationary Bicycle, my power level is on 6 for the Arms and Leg Machine and I am doing great on the Arm Machine. I am not losing my breath nor do I feel overwhelmed or tired after the workout. My blood pressure relaxes is 114 over 62 and while exercising it goes to 126 over 66. Not to bad for a 72 year old man. So was the surgery worth the pain and anxiety, my answer is diffinatly Yes, because I actually feel the before and after difference and the after surgery difference is so much better. Keep on ticking folks now I need to get on my bicycle and pedal around my community for the next 45 min.
Julie Fehrenbach-Cain That's awesome, John! It's incredible how well we can bounce back so quickly! Best wishes!
Dan Vechiola Awesome John! So glad for your positive life change. Keep working and keep reaping the. Benefits!
Louanna Miller This is so great to hear. I’m headed for mitral valve repair on Monday. I’ll be thankful when I ... Read more
Louanna Miller This is so great to hear. I’m headed for mitral valve repair on Monday. I’ll be thankful when I feel better.
Valerie Altman Reassuring words for the rest of us THANKS!!😎
LINDA ROBERTS You are doing awesome! Keep up the great work!
I was just asked a question from one of the folks here. "What Type of Aortic Valve Replacement did I receive" i know there are many different types that are ...Read more
I was just asked a question from one of the folks here. "What Type of Aortic Valve Replacement did I receive" i know there are many different types that are in use today and the one that my Surgeon used to replace my defective Aortic Valve with was the "Edwards Inspire Resila Aortic Replacement Tissue Valve" This is the newest type of Tissue valve out today that was just approved for use in 2018 in the United States. It is supposed to last much longer than other tissue valves on the market today because of it's long lasting anti-calcification materials used in its manufacturing. I hope this helps the folks who are having there Aortic Valve Replaced in there choice of valve replacement.
Mark Wilbur Thank you, John. I'll put this in my list of things to discuss with the surgeon.
LINDA ROBERTS Thank you, I will also ask my surgeon about that.
I need to make a list of questions soon.
Dan Vechiola Me too. Thanks John will be one of my questions on Wednesday too.
Marjorie Murphy John. Thanks for this information.
I too am debating on mechanical or tissue valve. Both my mitr ... Read more
Marjorie Murphy John. Thanks for this information.
I too am debating on mechanical or tissue valve. Both my mitral and aortic valve will need to be replaced.
Does anyone know if this same valve is available for the mitral valve?
John Lant ... Marjorie, This is something very important that you should discuss with your surgeon. He is the b ... Read more
John Lant ... Marjorie, This is something very important that you should discuss with your surgeon. He is the best one to help you deside what is best for your situation based on your age & general health. But I was told that if you opt for either a mechanical valve or tissue valve, then both valves have to be the same. You cannot have one that is mechanical & the other a tissue valve.
LINDA ROBERTS Do you need to watch your calcium intake with this type of valve?
LINDA ROBERTS Hi John. I am getting ready to have surgery at the CC. The valve you and your Dr. chose sounds amaz ... Read more
LINDA ROBERTS Hi John. I am getting ready to have surgery at the CC. The valve you and your Dr. chose sounds amazing with the anti calcification properties etc. What did your Dr. share with you to make you feel certain this is the valve for you.
The only thing that would make me nervous it has not been around long enough for lengthy studies but neither were any of the other valve in the beginning.
John Lant ... Linda, my surgeon told me at the consultation meeting that because of my age (72) that a tissue v ... Read more
John Lant ... Linda, my surgeon told me at the consultation meeting that because of my age (72) that a tissue valve is much more appropriate for me because I will not need to be on Coumadin or hear the ticking sound of my replacement Aortic Valve working. He told me that tissue valves are advancing at a rapid rate in development and are getting better all the time. He told me that he will be replacing my damaged aortic valve with the latest approved valve in America with the Resila Tissue Valve because it will last longer than the previous generation of replacement valves. This new resila valve replacement has undergone several years of testing in Europe and they have had good results with it. My surgeon also told me it should last around 15 to 20 years which is great for me. But the best part is that if in 10 or 15 years it does start to fail, because of its design it can accept a TAVAR replacement with out having my chest opened again. But my advice to you is to go on line and research this valve replacement and then talk about it with your surgeon which valve is best for your heart.... Good Luck Linda on your surgery and a speedy recovery.
LINDA ROBERTS I have ready extremely positive information about this valve and the many pluses of advancement with ... Read more
LINDA ROBERTS I have ready extremely positive information about this valve and the many pluses of advancement with preventing calcification and its design accepting the TAVR if a second surgery is ever needed. Will be talking with Dr. Svensson about his recommendation for me. Thanks so much for generously sharing your experience.
It is now over 3 weeks since I had my severely calcified Aortic Valve replaced, my Mytral Valve Repaired and my Double Bypass compleated. I am really feeling ...Read more
It is now over 3 weeks since I had my severely calcified Aortic Valve replaced, my Mytral Valve Repaired and my Double Bypass compleated. I am really feeling good after my surgery and my strength is coming back more & more. I am so great full to the skill of Dr. Adams and his team at Mt. Siani for the very successful outcome in repairing my damaged heart. It is so amazing to be living in these times of modern surgery were you can find the experienced surgeon to correct what is wrong with your heart and go on to live a full and productive life once more.
Today, (July 18th) I went back to Dr. Adams office for a follow up visit with the Physician Assistant and the Staff Doctor. The PA gave me a Cardio-gram which was now perfect, she also checked my surgical Incision on my chest and on my leg where they harvested a vien for my bypass, both of those incisions are also healing very well. Then the Doctor came in and listened to my heart & lungs and thank God he told me my heart now sounds perfect again. (no more murmur's & no more palpation's). The Doctor also read me the surgical report of what was exactly done to fix my broken heart in layman terms that were fully understandable to both myself and my wife. I was so happy to hear that I am doing so well and the Doctor also told me that I will be able to start driving my car again in 6 weeks post surgery and in 3 months I should no longer be experiencing any chest pain (which is very minimal now) and I should be totally back to normal being active again.
I am glad the worst part of my Heart Valve Surgery is now behind me and I am on the road to a full recovery. I just hope that the folks who followed my Journal will have there fears and anxiety eased by reading about my heart journey and what was on my mind during this entire process. Yes it is very scary and at times it just boggles your mind with so many thoughts & fears trying to take over your mind. But if you just take it one step at a time and read what the other folks went through and researching the best surgeon for your particular problem, you will do just fine. I applaud Adam Pick & his HeartValveSurgery.com web site because it was a god send for me to learn that I am not alone in this. God Bless you all and I will continue to post updates of my progress most likely on a monthly basis now.
Susan Lynn Fantastic news, John! Continued success!
LINDA ROBERTS Reading your experience has been very helpful to me and inspirational. No doubt I am very afraid of ... Read more
LINDA ROBERTS Reading your experience has been very helpful to me and inspirational. No doubt I am very afraid of surgery but it is encouraging to read your story. It must feel good to know that the surgery was worth it for now you have a healthy heart.
Dan Vechiola Thanks for sharing John! So glad to read your story and to hear you are doing so well. It is a big ... Read more
Dan Vechiola Thanks for sharing John! So glad to read your story and to hear you are doing so well. It is a big journey and you are doing a great job. Keep up the great work and again I appreciate you sharing journey with us. It is a great story for us to read.
Mark Wilbur Thanks for an excellent report, John! So happy for you. I want you to know how much I've appreciate ... Read more
Mark Wilbur Thanks for an excellent report, John! So happy for you. I want you to know how much I've appreciated your journals and how inspiring you have been for me.
Frence Tanque-Metoda Wow!!! Thanks be to God. I am 6 weeks post op and also healing well though my frozen shoulders pains ... Read more
Frence Tanque-Metoda Wow!!! Thanks be to God. I am 6 weeks post op and also healing well though my frozen shoulders pains sometimes which radiates to mg head.
Adam Pick Wow John! You are a rock star! That was really great of you to inspire others by sharing your uniqu ... Read more
Adam Pick Wow John! You are a rock star! That was really great of you to inspire others by sharing your unique experiences specific to fear and anxiety. I can not thank you enough for being a part of our community. P.S. I'm also thrilled to hear that Dr. Adams and the Mount Sinai team took care of you!
Now that it has been 2 weeks since I had my surgery (Arotic Valve Replacement, Mytral Valve Repair & Double Bypass) and I really can feel the difference with ...Read more
Now that it has been 2 weeks since I had my surgery (Arotic Valve Replacement, Mytral Valve Repair & Double Bypass) and I really can feel the difference with my heart. I used to always get lots of palpation's before the surgey and if I over exerted myself either by walking to fast or long I would start breathing much harder. Now after the surgery I do not have any of these symptoms at all. I walked to the end of my block and back home again several times a day and I feel good, no more hard & labored breathing. I saw my cardiologist 2 days ago and he said I am doing great and he no longer hears the swishing sound of my heart murmur, just a nicely functional working heart. He also adjusted some of my medicine and I no longer need to take the water pill to rid my body of the extra water weight I put on from the surgey. After the surgery I was up 22 pounds (206 lbs. ) and now I lost all that and am back down to a very healthy 178 lbs. My chest incision is healing very well and now after 2 weeks the numbness on my chest is finally going away. So far I have really not experienced much pain from the surgery which is a good thing as it keeps me off the Opioid Pain Meds. I still take my 2 naps a day and I am still either sleeping on my recliner chair or the soft sofa. I tried sleeping in my bed but for some reason I just find the mattress to hard to get comfortable on my back. Next Wednesday (July 18th.) I have an appointment with the Surgeon and I will keep you all updated after that. Well, so far so good my heart is working fine & really no other complaints to speak about. I am just glad the scary & hard part is behind me and my recovery is coming along well... I will update you all in another week... Keep on Ticking Folks.
Susan Lynn John - That's fantastic news! So glad to hear you're feeling better than ever. It's really amazing ... Read more
Susan Lynn John - That's fantastic news! So glad to hear you're feeling better than ever. It's really amazing how miraculous cardiac surgery can be. I wish you continued good health and success with the remainder of your recovery. Please keep us posted on your phenomenal progress.
I had a successful surgery on June 25th and thank goodness I really do not remember much of that day. I remember being scared and reciting my prayers while ...Read more
I had a successful surgery on June 25th and thank goodness I really do not remember much of that day. I remember being scared and reciting my prayers while they were puting in my IV line in the surgical holding room. But I also felt a comfort of well-being that is hard to explain. Then they wheeled me into the operating room put me on the table. All my inhabitions of being naked in front of the surgical team did not seem to bother me at all. The Anesthesiologist was telling me that he will be giving me the "Happy Juice" now, and thats all I remember untill I heard voices yelling at me to "Wake Up John" and them pulling the breathing tube out of my throat. Thats is about all I remember on that first day.
Day 1 post operation, i remember waking up and saying to myself that I do not feel in much pain. I remember touching my chest and it just felt numb. The nurse raised the bed so I can sit up and look at all the wires and drainage tubes on my body. But again, I really did not feel much pain. I was just very thirsty and the nurse brought me some cold water to sip on. Latter that day one of the Surgeon's came in and told me everthing went very well during the surgery and that someone will be here later to help me walk a few steps. My wife then came in for the first time to visit me and that was the biggest thrill of my life to have her by my side. Later on the first day post surgery, because I was doing so well they moved me from the ICU, to the step down cardiac unit and I was happy about that because I had a beautiful view of Central Park from my window.
Day 2, 3 & 4 post surgery I felt my breathing getting better & better and I was pushing 1000 ml on the spirometer which they told me was great. Now 10 days post surgery i am doing 1500 to 1700 which is really great. This needs to be done often to help your lungs fully expand back to normal and to greatly lesson your chance of contracting pneumonia. On day 4 all the draining tubes were removed from my body and I felt much better after they were pulled out of me.
Day 5 post surgery I was released from Mt. Siani and I was so happy to be going home again. When I arrived home my Boxer wanted to smother me with kisses, but thankfully she did not put her paws on my chest. I did my walks in my home with my wife watching out for me and I felt stronger after each and every walk. (walking is the key to a speedy recovery, so keep up the pace) my first dinner at home was a God Send.. I enjoy it so much over the yucky hospital food.
7 day post surgery we called my cardiologist's office and made an appointment to see him for a checkup on July 5th to adjust my medications. Then the Surgeon's office called to see how I am doing and to make an appointment to visit his office on the 18 of July.
So now that it is been 10 days post surgery, I am feeling so much stronger & much less sleepy and I still do not feel much pain from the surgery, nothing that a few TYLENOL cannot handle. Be well my friends the worst is behind me and only a full healthy life is ahead of me.
Chris Purvis Good to hear from you John. It truly is remarkable what our bodies can tolerate and how quickly they ... Read more
Chris Purvis Good to hear from you John. It truly is remarkable what our bodies can tolerate and how quickly they can recover. Sounds like your are wearing your incentive spirometer out which is awesome! Keep healing my man keep healing!
Susan Lynn Thanks for sharing your story! Glad to hear you're doing so well!
Thomas Brusstar Thanks for the detailed log. It's comforting just being able to picture the post-surgery course, and ... Read more
Thomas Brusstar Thanks for the detailed log. It's comforting just being able to picture the post-surgery course, and I hope mine goes as well as yours.
Darlene Smith Hello John, I was reading your post and I noticed your hospital was Mount Sinai. I had my mitral val ... Read more
Darlene Smith Hello John, I was reading your post and I noticed your hospital was Mount Sinai. I had my mitral valve repaired by Dr. Adams on July 18, 2016. I can't believe I'm just a few days away from two years. I thought Dr. Adams and his team were superb. And the nursing staff at Mount Sinai could not have been better. I had a very positive experience there. I see you are just down the parkway a bit from me. I'm off exit 117. Glad your surgery went well and you are off to a good start with your recovery!
Dan Vechiola Glad to hear you are doing well John! Its great to read about your experience. Keep up the great wo ... Read more
Dan Vechiola Glad to hear you are doing well John! Its great to read about your experience. Keep up the great work!
Bill Gillam Really appreciate all the detail and I am glad you are doing well.
Rose Madura Great news! May the rest of your recovery be without incudent.
Diane Maher Thank you so much, John for your very informative and helpful update. Did you have the double bypass ... Read more
Diane Maher Thank you so much, John for your very informative and helpful update. Did you have the double bypass as well?
Diane Capece Hi John. Glad to hear everything went well and you are on the road to recovery. I knew you would be i ... Read more
Diane Capece Hi John. Glad to hear everything went well and you are on the road to recovery. I knew you would be in good hands with Dr. Adams. Take care and keep up the good work!!!
Anne Carey Hi John. So glad to hear you are doing so well. I was looking for a post from you as I noticed that ... Read more
Anne Carey Hi John. So glad to hear you are doing so well. I was looking for a post from you as I noticed that you had Dr. Adams as a surgeon and I, too, am scheduled for surgery with him on July 17th. Just finished all my pre-op testing at Mount Sinai yesterday.
Thank you so much for sharing your story...it means a lot to those of us still on this side of the surgery and will help me stay positive.
Sending you prayers for a continued great recovery.
John Lant ..... Anne, You will be in the best care with Dr. Adams and his fantastic team.... It is now 11 days ... Read more
John Lant ..... Anne, You will be in the best care with Dr. Adams and his fantastic team.... It is now 11 days post opt for me and I am feeling better & better everyday. My thoughts and prayers are with you and you will do fine and after the surgery you can actually feel your heart working better.
Anne Carey Your great experience with Dr Adams is really helping me stay positive. It was so helpful to read you ... Read more
Anne Carey Your great experience with Dr Adams is really helping me stay positive. It was so helpful to read your daily post of journals....I think I would like to not remember some of the early days too!!
Take good care and keep getting stronger each day!
I have 3 days to go before I check in to Mt. Sinai Hospital for my heart surgery. Somehow it all seems like a bad dream coming to a head. I would be lying to ...Read more
I have 3 days to go before I check in to Mt. Sinai Hospital for my heart surgery. Somehow it all seems like a bad dream coming to a head. I would be lying to you all if I told you I was not scared & the fear of dying has crossed my mind several times. Is this a normal process to think this way or is this just my mind playing tricks with me, but one thing is for sure as the past few months slipped by quickly these next 3 days will come about a lot quicker. I do remind myself many times that this surgery needs to be done before it does permanent damage to my heart, because that will for sure dramatically shorten my life. This is the major thought that keeps me always going forward during this amazing journey. I also realize that I have an excellent surgeon in Dr. Adams, who has a fantastic surgical team with lots of experience, so I will be in good hands. Dr. Adams has also told me not to worry because I came to the best place in the world to have my heart repaired and that I will be just fine. I guess when you get this close to your surgery date you just need to settle down with a positive outlook and keep moving forward. I will be keeping up with my Journal as I am recovering next week... God Bless You All and to all that offered me wisdom and advice.
Rose Madura Hi John. Your thoughts are normal. Try to remind yourself that the success rate for these surgeries ... Read more
Rose Madura Hi John. Your thoughts are normal. Try to remind yourself that the success rate for these surgeries is very high. You are in good hands. Remember that these doctors do this every day and even if something goes wrong, they know what to do and will all work together to make you better. You'll feel much better after you've recovered and will not regret having the surgery. Best wishes and try to keep us posted. God bless you.
Chris Purvis All normal John. I’m only 1 day post but my surgeon sent me an email the night before that said I†... Read more
Chris Purvis All normal John. I’m only 1 day post but my surgeon sent me an email the night before that said I’ll take care you don’t worry. From that moment on I was as relaxed as possible. Your has already given you that reassurance-trust him. It’s 2018 and what these surgeons do is incredible. The lord will be with you-trust in that.
Judy Shaw I'm feeling the same way, John. But I have to be at peace and trust that everything will be ok. Praye ... Read more
Judy Shaw I'm feeling the same way, John. But I have to be at peace and trust that everything will be ok. Prayers for you, John.
Anita Edmonds Yes, feel a roller coaster of emotions from relief to pure terror!!
Mark Wilbur John, The hard part is knowing that surgery is going to happen at a specific time, specific date, spe ... Read more
Mark Wilbur John, The hard part is knowing that surgery is going to happen at a specific time, specific date, specific place. We have a lot of time to think about it. And worry. The odds of successful surgery are very high and the risks are very low, and yet we stew about it. Meanwhile, we go about our daily lives doing things like driving in traffic and believe we're going to return home safe and sound. But, we know that some don't come home... and, still, we drive with no fear. Be as confident in your doctors and hospital (I should be so lucky to be that close to Mt. Sinai Hospital!) and you will be fine. We'll hold you in our prayers for a successful procedure and an uneventful recovery and rehab. And, we'll look for your updates in the coming days! Peace.
Kim Lonergan I understand how you are feeling. I feel the exact same way. Waiting over 2 months for surgery has gi ... Read more
Kim Lonergan I understand how you are feeling. I feel the exact same way. Waiting over 2 months for surgery has given me too much time to worry and stress. I have confidence in my surgeon Dr Ryan. I know I am in very experienced hands for the valve repair but the doubts still seem to creep in. Sending positive thoughts and prayers to you for your surgery Monday! Anxious to hear from you in recovery!
Dan Vechiola Hang in there John! Your feelings are normal and how I will be feeling as well. Once you get there ... Read more
Dan Vechiola Hang in there John! Your feelings are normal and how I will be feeling as well. Once you get there it will be Game Time and you will be ready. A friend of mine who has been through this said when you get to the day of surgery you just have to have faith and let go and it will be out of your hands. Good luck and keep us posted!
John, the odds are clearly in your favor. Think about how often these talented surgeons do heart proc ... Read more
John, the odds are clearly in your favor. Think about how often these talented surgeons do heart procedures and all of their success stories. It sounds like you have a great hospital and surgical team. It is horryifying what thoughts we can throw into our minds waiting for the day. Dealing with the mortality issue faces everyone prior to surgery. Hopefully you will experience a calm the day of your procedure. Will keep you in my prayers. Karen Warren
Jennifer John Keep the faith — and trust the science.
Helen Daw I agree with Dr Adams, and I'm talking from experience, you went to the best! You will be fine with ... Read more
Helen Daw I agree with Dr Adams, and I'm talking from experience, you went to the best! You will be fine with those gifted hands of Dr Adams and his team. Good luck and looking forward to reading your recovery updates.
Diane Maher Google How to Feel Calm Before Surgery by Peggy Huddleston for some very helpful strategies (I have h ... Read more
Diane Maher Google How to Feel Calm Before Surgery by Peggy Huddleston for some very helpful strategies (I have her book which is really helping me). Also I remind myself every time I start thinking about what lies ahead for me to 'keep in the moment'.
Sending best wishes and positive thoughts.
Muhammad Riyaz Just think this way John, " Every one has to go one day, and if this is the way let's be it". My surg ... Read more
Muhammad Riyaz Just think this way John, " Every one has to go one day, and if this is the way let's be it". My surgery is on 5th of July/2018. I have prepared myself this way. I asked myself that after 20 years when I will be 87, will I be ready to go? Still I will not. What about at 97, 30 years from now, will I be? Answer is, still not. Hence, though the death will eventually come, we will never be ready for it. My surgeon told me that with 2 to 3 years I will have a massive heart attack if I do not opt for surgery and the chances for survival for a Type 2 Diabetic patient is 2 %, where as the chance of survival in open heart is 98%. Should I go for 98% or 2%? I am sure that you might have the same options. I am preparing all that for my wife and my children, in case, but I am hoping for the best. Be strong, I am sure that both you and I will survive and will share the best of life with each other.
Rita Savelis It is like a dream and very unreal. You'll be asleep during surgery so unable to even imagine it. But ... Read more
Rita Savelis It is like a dream and very unreal. You'll be asleep during surgery so unable to even imagine it. But I hear you it is all very very unreal, and one can wonder if it is really happening. There is no preparation and no being ready. You just take the next step. And then it's post surgery with its own unrealness....Take care.
Susan Lynn John - Everything you're feeling is normal. Someone told me that a level of calmness would come over ... Read more
Susan Lynn John - Everything you're feeling is normal. Someone told me that a level of calmness would come over me in pre-op. Whether it was divine intervention or my body's defense mechanism to shield me from traumatic thinking, I'm not sure, but that's exactly what happened. I felt confident as I was being taken into the OR - I didn't shed one tear. Heart surgery is something we had/have to do. Be grateful, we are not ill, we are temporarily defective. Heart surgery is able to give us normal lives and life expectancies. You're going to be fine. Think positive thoughts - imagine everything you're going to do when you're out!
Rose Madura Reading all these comments makes me realize what WARRIORS we are - ALL OF US! It's a difficult road ... Read more
Rose Madura Reading all these comments makes me realize what WARRIORS we are - ALL OF US! It's a difficult road to take but we have all been brave enough to take it!
John Lant Thank you all for your good advice & comments. God bless each and everyone one of you.
Yesterday was a very busy day at Mount Siani Hospital with all my pre-surgery testing. They took 7 tubes of blood out of me to test for everything known to ...Read more
Yesterday was a very busy day at Mount Siani Hospital with all my pre-surgery testing. They took 7 tubes of blood out of me to test for everything known to mankind. The results came back all good so i was thankful for that and I also had a new chest xray & CT scan done along with a new cardiogram so my surgeon has the current information that he requires. I also spoke with the anesthesiologist who explained how he was going to prepare me for my surgey, then the physician assistant came in to explain what was going to be done on me for the surgery and the follow up care after my surgery. He was very thorough in explaining everything to me, about my stay in the ICU & my stay in the cardiac care unit for the remainder of my hospital stay which will be about 5 to 7 days. I was also given a spromiter for breathing exercises at home and a speical antiseptic soap to wash up with before my surgery. The folks at Mount Siani were just amazing to me and there attention & attitude towards me was just wonderful & caring. So in 10 more days I will be fully prepared for my heart surgery because of the confidence in my surgeon Dr. Adams and the amazing people who will be caring for me afterwards. I used to be so scared to even think of this surgery being done on me, but finding the right doctor & the right hospital has done so much in helping me out mentally to get through this and to look forward to a better and more healthy life. I want to thank Adam Pick & his amazing website that helped me find the right doctor & hospital for my surgey, I could not of done what I did without HeartValveSurgery.com.
Mark Wilbur John, thank you for such a detailed account. This helps people like me understand what to expect whe ... Read more
Mark Wilbur John, thank you for such a detailed account. This helps people like me understand what to expect when our time comes. We will keep you in our prayers as you count down the days!
Helen Daw Dr Adams is great and Mount Sinai staff will take good care of you. I had dr Adams as well and loved ... Read more
Helen Daw Dr Adams is great and Mount Sinai staff will take good care of you. I had dr Adams as well and loved his confidence. The ICU nurses were just phenomenal. Good luck!!
Diane Capece Dr Adams did a mitral and tricuspid repair on me in August 2016 and I did great. He is a wonderful do ... Read more
Diane Capece Dr Adams did a mitral and tricuspid repair on me in August 2016 and I did great. He is a wonderful doctor and I had great care afterwards. 5 weeks after surgery I was back to normal. Best wishes to you but you certainly made the right choice in surgeons...
John Lant Thank you all for your kind words and well wishes.
June 14th I have my Pre-surgery testing which I am looking forward to completing. Then on June 25 I go for my surgery (Replace Aortic Valve, Repair Mytral Valve ...Read more
June 14th I have my Pre-surgery testing which I am looking forward to completing. Then on June 25 I go for my surgery (Replace Aortic Valve, Repair Mytral Valve & Double Bypass) but i feel more confident & comfortable than ever because of the Surgeon I have doing the Surgery. The first surgeon I went to was very good but i just did not feel confident about him, because he told me that I have only a 60 or 70 percent chance of repairing my mytral valve. Getting a second opinion from a great surgeon like Dr Adams at Mount Sinai was a God send for me. Dr. Adams told me he can repair my moderately leaking Mytral Valve 100% and replace my Stenosis Aortic Valve with a Tissue Cow Valve along with doing a double bypass because I come to the best place in the world to have my surgery done. So I am really prepared for June 25th, Spiritual, Mentally & Physically because of my faith in my God and my surgeons ability to repair & correct my heart problems.
Judy Shaw Thoughts, prayers and good wishes for a successful surgery and smooth recovery.
Chris Purvis Praying my man-all will go well and Recovery is easy and uneventful!
Rose Madura Trust in your surgeon is a must! Glad you have peace about it all. Let us know how everything goes. ... Read more
Rose Madura Trust in your surgeon is a must! Glad you have peace about it all. Let us know how everything goes.
Susan Lynn It's right around the corner. You're going to do great, John! We'll be here waiting for your good ... Read more
Susan Lynn It's right around the corner. You're going to do great, John! We'll be here waiting for your good news!
John Lant Thank you all for your support & well wishes.
I went for my second opinion at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City today (May 2nd) and had a consultation with Dr. Adam's. He was just fantastic in explaining ...Read more
I went for my second opinion at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City today (May 2nd) and had a consultation with Dr. Adam's. He was just fantastic in explaining what is wrong with my Aortic & Mytral valve. He told me that it is 100% certain that my Mytral Valve can be repaired and that I only need only my Aortic Valve replaced. While he has my chest open he will also do a double bypass because of a 70% blockage of two heart arteries. I left his office feeling extremely confident of his abilities & skills. So now I scheduled my surgery for June 25 and now my search for a surgeon with skill & compassion is over.
Helen Daw I love Dr Adams!!! He operated on my on Feb 13th.
Gina Fiorentino Bravo! Confidence in your surgeon makes a world of difference!
Susan Lynn Congratulations! That's one of the most difficult decisions. This will all be behind you before you ... Read more
Susan Lynn Congratulations! That's one of the most difficult decisions. This will all be behind you before you know it.
Anna Jones That is absolutely fantastic news. I had wanted Dr. Adams to operate on me too, but he doesn't take ... Read more
Anna Jones That is absolutely fantastic news. I had wanted Dr. Adams to operate on me too, but he doesn't take my insurance. You've made a wonderful choice.
Completed my blood test & chest X-Ray. Now I am just waiting to hear back from my cardiologist office of when my catheterization & TEE test is going to be scheduled. ...Read more
Completed my blood test & chest X-Ray. Now I am just waiting to hear back from my cardiologist office of when my catheterization & TEE test is going to be scheduled. Frankly for me, the wait is more upsetting me then getting the procedure. I hope the rest of this scary journey into my valve replacement goes much better.
Susan Killian When is your surgery? Mine is April 11. Just had my heart Cath on Monday and all is good. All my ot ... Read more
Susan Killian When is your surgery? Mine is April 11. Just had my heart Cath on Monday and all is good. All my other tests are complete!
John Lant Susan, I don't know yet, because I need the catheterization & TEE test completed first. I have an app ... Read more
John Lant Susan, I don't know yet, because I need the catheterization & TEE test completed first. I have an appointment on April 17th with my Cardiologist who will go over my test results and he will then give me all the information & disks to take to the surgeon for there review.
Phyllis Petersen The waiting can be the hardest part. You basically put the rest of your life on hold until testing, s ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen The waiting can be the hardest part. You basically put the rest of your life on hold until testing, scheduling, etc. is done. Hang in there!
Today 3/22/18 I am going for my Chest X-ray then tomorrow i will be going for my blood test. My cardiologist ordered this to be done because my next step is ...Read more
Today 3/22/18 I am going for my Chest X-ray then tomorrow i will be going for my blood test. My cardiologist ordered this to be done because my next step is to go to Jersey Shore Medical Center for a Catheterization and have aTEE procedure done as a outpatient. Then I have an appointment again with my cardiologist on April 17th. We will go over these test results which is to show a more detailed scan of my heart & valves. My previous echo showed that not only my Aortic Valve has moderate to severe stenious but my mitral valve has some regurgitating also. I still have no idea of when my surgey will take place, but I informed my cardiologist that I prefer to go to NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center. They are ranked 3rd best in the country & I just feel more comfortable having my surgery there. This site (Heart Valve Surgey.com) was a god send to me in making my most important decision of my life. As I progress further into my up coming heart valve surgey I will do my best to keep this journal updated.
Civita Fahey HI John its a long process sometimes but its great that you know where you want it done and you will ... Read more
Civita Fahey HI John its a long process sometimes but its great that you know where you want it done and you will be in great hands..keep us posted on your date!
I had my new Echo done about 2 weeks ago & today I followed up with a vist to my Cardiologist. First thing he asked me was how was your breathing, do you notice ...Read more
I had my new Echo done about 2 weeks ago & today I followed up with a vist to my Cardiologist. First thing he asked me was how was your breathing, do you notice your getting out of breath more easily than a year ago. I told him yes, I have noticed that I am breathing harder with only moderate exertion. He asked me this because the Echo now shows my Aortic Valve is getting narrower do to the Stenosis and that it is time for the valve replacement. I also have Mytral Valve regurgitation and this may have to be repaired also. Frankly I am scared to death, but I have no other choice but to get these valves replaced & repaired. I am 72 years old and in reasonably good health so I am hoping for the best. I have to go in as a outpatient at my hospital for several pre-surgical tests & then with this information i need to go to the surgeon. I will update this entry as I move along with the process. But, frankly I am at this point in my life I am very scared.
Tracy Simmons What you're feeling is totally normally. I think the planning process, pre-op appointments, and wait ... Read more
Tracy Simmons What you're feeling is totally normally. I think the planning process, pre-op appointments, and waiting are the toughest thing. This is a great site to get questions answers, hear suggestions, and get support from those that understand what you're going through. I wish you the very best.
Helen Daw John, what you are feeling is totally normal and I can relate. I was terrified and had many sleepless ... Read more
Helen Daw John, what you are feeling is totally normal and I can relate. I was terrified and had many sleepless nights over it. I just had my mitral valve repaired last month and it really wasn't that bad. The hardest part was finding out and waiting for it. I walked out of the hospital taking just a couple of Tylenols a day. Today I walked for 3 miles with no problem what so ever. Read the journals here and I think you will find that most people will tell you that it wasn't bad.
Mark Wilbur Hi John. I'm also 72 years old and was stunned two years ago when I first learned about my aortic st ... Read more
Mark Wilbur Hi John. I'm also 72 years old and was stunned two years ago when I first learned about my aortic stenosis. The thought of open heart surgery and being on a heart/lung machine terrified me. I worried for months as I searched for information.
Well, for me, finding this website has been a godsend, with all of its resources -- and the wonderful people here who take time to share their experiences.
Knowledge is empowering. We have good reason to be concerned about a life changing -- and life saving -- experience. And yet, I have come to peace with what is to come because of the knowledge I've gotten from being part of this online support group. I'm sure there are going to be more responses to your post and they are going to be reassuring like Tracy's and Helen's comments above.
I don't know when my surgery will be; I'll find out more in May. FDR's "fear" comment applies here, too. I have gone from fear to confidence because of those who share here... and, as you read their stories, I hope that you will gain that confidence also. Let fear lead you to knowledge... and knowledge to assurance.
Rita Savelis I hear you John. It's scary. But you move forward. Getting your pre-op tests done now means that you' ... Read more
Rita Savelis I hear you John. It's scary. But you move forward. Getting your pre-op tests done now means that you're ready for surgery whenever it needs to happen. I did my pre-op tests about a year before OHS and then it was my decision when to have OHS with doctors monitoring me every 3 months.
Being in good health is in your favor for an easier recovery. Wishing you some peace. Take care.
You're definitely at a scary point. Frankly I'd be worried about you if you weren't scared. You will get through this. A better life awaits you on the other side. If you are otherwise in good health then that will work in your favor. Best wishes to you.
John Lant Thank you all for you kind words and good wishes.. God Bless you all.