Marlise's Guestbook

My husband had a mitral valve replacement and had a few similar symptoms as well as an infection. A paravalvular leak that was jetting was not detected and he did not survive. Please get the valves checked for leaking as apparently they can be hard to detect.

Dear Marlise, You are in my thoughts . I had another surgery a month after my heart valves replacement to drain the fluids from my lungs and the doctor told me after that they had to insert a needle on my back to fully drain the fluids . It’s a nightmare ! I had another 3 inches scar below my breast for that procedure . The worst was my husband was already deployed When it happened so I don’t have emotional support . Your family is there and you’re blessed . I’m so grateful to the Lord that I’m back to my feet now doing the normal things I do. Hang in there and believe by faith you will overcome.

If they wind up having to tap the fluid out of your lungs (using a needle inserted between the ribs), do NOT be alarmed. When they told me I had to have that done, I anticipated an awful experience. Boy was I wrong! They injected some lidocaine into the spot for the needle, then I held on, gritting my teeth (I was facing away from the technician) while I prepared for the worst. A couple of minutes later, he said from behind me, "All done." I honestly didn't feel a thing other than the slight sting of the lidocaine needle. Best wishes for your speedy--and fearless-recovery.

Hi Marilee, I saw that you have a surgery date. You are in good hands at Duke and are gonna do great! Thought and prayers for a successful surgery and speedy recovery!