About Me (In My Own Words)
In 2016, my GP detected a murmur and ordered an echo. That is when the aortic stenosis and bicuspid valve was identified. That led to annual echo tests and in 2024, it became apparent that heart valve surgery was on the horizon. I never had any symptoms and continued to work out regularly. In early 2025, an EKG also picked up A-fib. Although it was not detected when I wore a Zio patch for 7 days, I apparently have A-fib infrequently - yet without symptoms. An echo in February 2025 confirmed the severe status of the aortic stenosis (AVA .78), and showed some dilation of the ascending aorta (4.0), although not in the range that would normally require repair. In March of 2025, I had a heart cath which confirmed the severe status of the bicuspid aortic valve. The good news was that I had very little coronary artery blockage - so no CABG needed. I have been actively viewing Heart Valve Surgery.com for several years, and over the past 2+ years have taken a deep dive in educating myself on the condition I have and the surgeons that are top in class. After speaking with and listening to many heart valve surgeons, I settled on Dr. Marc Gerdisch who practices at Franciscan Health Heart Valve Center in Indianapolis, In. Not only has he done thousands of heart valve procedures, he stays up on the latest studies and is himself an innovator in the field. Not only that, he is very easy to to, is a good listener, and enjoys educating his patients. I am scheduled for surgery on April 16, 2025. I have had a long runway in preparation for this surgery and am not anxious (at least not yet). My wife and daughter (a NICU nurse) will accompany me to Indianapolis, and possibly my brother-in-law will join us after surgery. I have read reams of material, talked with other heart valve recipients, and spoken to Dr. Gerdisch regarding the type of valve. Because of my particular situation, it will be a full sternotomy. I am almost 65, have no other major comorbidities, and am still active - working out, hiking, riding bike, and playing with my seven (soon to be eight) grandchildren. While there is no guarantee, I do have longevity in my family. So, there is no right or wrong choice on the valve type. The Edwards Inspiris Resilia tissue valve treated with an anticalcification process, seems to have promise but has been in use for about eight years. So, we don't know if it will live up to expectations. The On-X mechanical valve has been in use since 2001 and in 2015, the FDA granted an expanded labeling claim for a lower INR goal (1.5 - 2.0) instead of the normal 2.0 - 3.0 goal for mechanical valves. This is estimated to lower the incidents of major bleeding events by 87% as compared to patients maintaining a INR of 2.0-3.0. While some heart valve patients do have some struggles with warfarin and maintaining their INR in range, most input I have heard or seen indicate most patients are doing well. I am leaning toward the On-X option but still have 13 days to decide. Most importantly, I have a tremendous network of friends and family supporting me and praying for me. Now I am trusting in my medical team and the God who brought us together. Psalm 91.
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Lakeland, FL
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My surgery date is:
April 16, 2025
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I was diagnosed with:
Aortic Stenosis
Bicuspid Aortic Valve
Atrial Fibrillation
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My surgery was:
Aortic Valve Replacement
Maze Procedure
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