don's Guestbook

Don- I was adamant about having robotic surgery and, ironically, a robotic surgeon actually talked me out of it because it takes hours longer than other forms of entry. Several other surgeons also told me that while robotics are great when you're removing something (like gynecological or prostate surgeries), it makes for more precarious surgery on the heart. I had a minimally invasive side entry mitral valve repair on December 1, spent three days in the hospital, and have had minimal post-operative pain. I also have very little scarring. Do your homework and make an informed choice that's right for you. Good luck! You'll be fine - by far, the worst part is waiting for the day of surgery to arrive.