About Me (In My Own Words)
Four years ago my GP heard a hear murmur during a regular check up. I went for an Echo Cardiogram that confirmed a leaky (regurgitating) heart valve and was referred to a cardiologist. I was told surgery was inevitable but couldn't predict when and began with regular Echo's going forward. In February of of 2018 the cardiologist said it was time to think about surgery as my heart function had become markedly worse.
I found this site, did a ton of research on surgery options and began looking for a surgeon. I found Dr. Tolis out of Mass General and went for a second opinion. I also ordered Adam's book which I found tremendously helpful. I went for a third opinion and all confirmed I needed surgery. I liked Dr. Tolis immensely and he had an impeccable record so I chose him as my surgeon.
I elected to have a St. Jude mechanical valve implanted and he sent me on my way. I had several months of teeth work to complete and eventually a cardiac cath test to complete. These were completed by late July and my surgery was scheduled for September 10th.
I'm 20 days out of surgery and doing well. I'm walking 3 miles every other day and my GP and my cardiologist are very pleased with my progress. I'm taking care of myself at home, in the bath and making most of my own meals. I do have intermittent AF about every four or five days that lasts for most of a day or so but my rhythm typically resolves back to a sinus rhythm in a day or so. I'm told that AFIB resolves completely within s weeks for 95 percent of patients experiencing AFIB after heart valve surgery.
At 53 years old I see this as a a second lease on life. Looking forward to making the most of the rest of my long life going forward.
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
-
My surgery date is:
September 10, 2018
-
I was diagnosed with:
Aortic Regurgitation
-
My surgery was:
Aortic Valve Replacement
-
My surgeon is:
Dr. George Tolis
-
