Joe's Guestbook

Joe Lape  I guess it is a small world. I had no idea. So I guess you went through what I am about to go through. I had a repair done when I was 13 so replacement is my only option. Still not sure what I am going to choose but I really do not want to do this again in 10 years. I am having it done at Shadyside, and so far the surgeon and the team seem phenomenal.

I am glad you are doing well and it was very nice for you to reach out. So you had a repair and not replacement?

Dana Keller  Yes, my surgeon was able to do a repair. My July was a blur with worry and this decision. I had to have a back up plan. I signed everything the day before for a mechanical but I panicked in the OR and changed it to tissue. Luckily I didn't need it. I hope the repair lasts a very long time. I went to AGH - Dr. Dr McGregor for his repair success rate and for robotic surgery. I'm hoping I never have to have this surgery again, or maybe science will be so advanced that it could be replaced via TMVR for me in the future. Now that surgery is over, I could kick myself for changing the value choices. I would have continued to live my life and adjusted the meds. I wish you best in your decision, I know it's a hard one.
So this is your second open heart surgery? We are so lucky to have great hospitals so close to us.

Joe Lape  Thank you so much for sharing this information. I will definitely look in to that and discuss with my surgeon.

Joe Lape  Thank you so much for sharing this information. I will definitely look in to that and discuss with my surgeon.

Bryant To  Joe, I am 46 and had the Ross procedure on June 26 2019 with Dr. Paul Stelzer at Mount Sinai. It was the best decision I have ever made. I had the same concern as you about the mechanical and tissue valves. When I spoke to Dr. Stelzer, I was convinced that the Ross procedure was best for me. I am doing great now and about 95% of myself prior to surgery. Fortunate for me, I had very little pain and no fibrillation.