Melanie's Guestbook

Phyllis Petersen  I don't remember the breathing tube either. My sister said that it was out within 2 hours after surgery and that I was awake, but I have no recollection.

Anita Ibarra  Mine was not taken out until my 2nd day in the ICU because my blood pressure was so low so they kept it for a while. I had to do a little bit of hand gesture to ask for something to write on so I can complain that I hurt so bad, both on the surgery site and the excruciating pain on my back. Although my penmanship was a bit illegible, my husband who was by my side all that time understood and told the nurse. So the nurse pumped more pain killers on my IV.

Helen Roy  Hi Julie
I had the very same fears. My surgeon over ruled me on the tissue valve. It wasn't possible for me in the end as I needed the root replacing and there were other complications. I'm so glad he did! Although it was my second lot of open heart surgery I had forgotten how horrible it was! I know now I couldn't go through that again... and my surgeon said I might not survive a third round of surgery anyway. I don't mind warfarin ( Coumadin) now at all. I have got used to the blood tests ( about every two months) and have managed to compensate for the side effects ( vitamin K deficiency and mild hair loss etc) with vitamins and supplements. My skin is actually loads better since taking it :0). Monthly cycles may get worse. Mine have but that could be my age. Its not unmanageable though and taking supplements and a healthy diet helps. I keep some vitamin K2 on hand for the really bad cycles but I rarely need to take it. It does bring your INR down though but just temporarily. The ticking noise of the mechanical valve is hard to adjust to at first but it just feels normal now and I actually find it quite useful as I know when my heart rate is going up and it s good feedback to have from your body. Try not to worry and I hope your surgery goes well. It will be all over before you know it and you will feel so much healthier and full of energy :0). That makes up for all the other inconvenience.