About Me (In My Own Words)
Hello, When I was 50 years old I found out that I was born with a bicuspid aortic valve and that eventually I would need to have it replaced as that type of valve cannot last a whole lifetime. One year ago, in April 2010, I had my valve replaced during open heart surgery (full incision) with a pig valve.
Before surgery I read Adams book and followed a lot of patients on this website thru their surgery and recovery; it was very comforting to read the stories and know that I would be OK. At that time I did not start a journal, but do feel the need to now.
Last week I had a TEE test and even though I do not have any symptoms, was told that my 1 year old pig valve (that was supposed to last 15 - 20 years) is already starting to close up!! How can this be, I said.
The only answer given was - sometimes this happens!!
Has anyone ever had this experience? I really need some advice.
I am visiting the cardiologist this week to get the full test results and will definitely get a second opinion.
I am a 58 year old mother of 3, grandmother of 5 and have a very demanding job. I can't believe that I will need to go thru the surgery again!
Fast Forward to 2020; Thankfully my pig valve has lasted 11 years.
Although I have been living with symptoms of aortic stenosis for about the last 5 years, the last 6 months they have become severe and I am ready to schedule surgery at the U of M Hospital soon.
Will need to have the full open heart procedure again because the first surgeon used the wrong size valve. Chose your healthcare wisely!
My second aortic valve replacement is scheduled for 3/26/21.
Yah!! Surgery has been moved up to 3/12/21!!
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Waterford, Michigan
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My surgery date is:
March 12, 2021
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I was diagnosed with:
Bicuspid Aortic Valve
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My surgery was:
Aortic Valve Replacement
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My surgeon is:
Dr. Bo Yang
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