Good news. For those of you, particularly Richard’s heart angels:), that saw my post two weeks re: broken sternum wire, Mt Sinai in NYC said the bottom ...Read more
Good news. For those of you, particularly Richard’s heart angels:), that saw my post two weeks re: broken sternum wire, Mt Sinai in NYC said the bottom wire is not broken. And even if it was, it is not a big deal. Happens fairly often, radiologist said.
He continued to say the x-ray of my fractured ribs does look like a broken wire to those untrained in reading a post-heart surgery x-ray. The seemingly broken wires were actually side views of my two annulus rings on MV and TV. I tried uploading a photo of the x-ray, but it not clear enough. Crazy, but glad!!!
Marie Myers That is great news! Now get back out and finish shoveling that driveway… NOT!!
Deena Z Marie- you read my mind! Lol. I was going to post that at least I learned not to ever shovel snow a... Read more
Deena Z Marie- you read my mind! Lol. I was going to post that at least I learned not to ever shovel snow again.
Richard Munson Great news deena. You sound wired. I go for my echo wednesday. Last year i walked out with an angry h ... Read more
Richard Munson Great news deena. You sound wired. I go for my echo wednesday. Last year i walked out with an angry hip bursa sac so this year i am insisting on padding for the table.
J Alexander Lassally Super great, D! Just goes to show that specialized eyes like one gets at Mt Sinai are essential for ... Read more
J Alexander Lassally Super great, D! Just goes to show that specialized eyes like one gets at Mt Sinai are essential for the nuanced diagnosis/ evaluation we need and deserve as post surgery valve patients. This is a nice case study in fact !!!!
Pamela Gregory Really great news! I agree with Alexander that a well trained eye is an absolute must
Rose Madura Deena, that's great news! So happy that all is well. 👍
Ana Brusso Oh my dear hvs godchild, this is great news. Glad you followed up with the right technician that coul ... Read more
Ana Brusso Oh my dear hvs godchild, this is great news. Glad you followed up with the right technician that could explain clearly. Follow Marie’s command. Love ❤️ and prayers 🙏
Deena Z Thanks everyone for your prior advice and well wishes now!! J and Pamela, ditto! It’s a wonder ... Read more
Deena Z Thanks everyone for your prior advice and well wishes now!! J and Pamela, ditto! It’s a wonderful feeling when i called Mt Sinai in NYC almost four years after my surgery they continued to be so responsive.
Hi all, Does anyone have any experience with a sternum wire that has broken or unraveled? One of mine has. Waiting for ...Read more
Unraveled Sternum Wire
Hi all, Does anyone have any experience with a sternum wire that has broken or unraveled? One of mine has. Waiting for Mt Sinai NY to review my x-ray. Think I did this from shoveling snow…. Thanks much!
Robert Miller Have the broken wires been confirmed via x-ray and what are the symptoms? I would be surprised if the ... Read more
Robert Miller Have the broken wires been confirmed via x-ray and what are the symptoms? I would be surprised if they really broke. Having said that, I do have a couple of bumps around two of my ribs. I believe they have not been there right after surgery. They are annoying at times but all in all do not pose any issue.
Susan Lynn Sorry to read this news, Deena. Please keep us posted.
Ana Brusso Oh my dear hvs godchild, sorry you are having this issue. No more shoveling snow! Pay someone to do t ... Read more
Ana Brusso Oh my dear hvs godchild, sorry you are having this issue. No more shoveling snow! Pay someone to do that. As my little Angel Susan Lynn said, please keep us posted. Love ❤️ and prayers 🙏
Rose Madura Oh Deena, that sounds very painful. Please keep us posted.
Deena Z Thanks Everyone! SME Marie, area by incision ached after snow shoveling, but not that painful. End... Read more
Deena Z Thanks Everyone! SME Marie, area by incision ached after snow shoveling, but not that painful. Ended in two days. Wire is not broken, the last wire has unraveled. Looks like the tie or knot or whatever they do to secure the wire has untied. End looks like a wishbone. Does this make sense? Robert, verified via x-ray. Had x-ray because fractured ribs after falling on ice. Silver lining, maybe....
Marie Myers The surgeon usually twists the wire together, literally like a twist tie on a bread bag. I had no ide ... Read more
Marie Myers The surgeon usually twists the wire together, literally like a twist tie on a bread bag. I had no idea that unraveling could happen, but apparently it can happen. Keep us posted!
Robert Miller This is how it is supposed to look like. That's one of my wires.
Grace Mason Oh no. Sorry to hear that Deena. I didn't know you shouldn't shovel either. I hope your fractured rib ... Read more
Grace Mason Oh no. Sorry to hear that Deena. I didn't know you shouldn't shovel either. I hope your fractured ribs are healing and you are feeling better soon. Darn ice!
My cardiologist, who is excellent, just said that having an annual echo is no longer needed. This is three years post- ...Read more
Annual ECHO
Situation:
My cardiologist, who is excellent, just said that having an annual echo is no longer needed. This is three years post- MV and tricuspid valve repair surgery. His reasoning is that this is the “current medical protocol”, and we are all need to not waste dollars on unnecessary exams and tests.
Question: Wondering if anyone’s cardiologist said the direct opposite (that is, do the annual echo) and the rationale.
Rita Savelis 9 years after double valve replacement surgery I have an echo once a year.
Deena Z Thanks, Rita. Did your cardiologist recommend it?
Ana Brusso Dear hvs godchild, Almost five years after Aortic valve replacement and going to see cardiologist in ... Read more
Ana Brusso Dear hvs godchild, Almost five years after Aortic valve replacement and going to see cardiologist in December he ordered an echo the same day I’m seeing him at UCLA.
Deena Z Thanks HVS Godmom. Will have to find another cardiologist. Not my favorite type of shopping!
Rita Savelis Deena, I see my cardiologist for a check-up twice a year and an echo is always done before one of tho ... Read more
Rita Savelis Deena, I see my cardiologist for a check-up twice a year and an echo is always done before one of those bi-yearly appts in the same office right before my cardiology appt. This is how we've proceeded for 9 years. I think this must be hospital cardiology protocol. But honestly, if it wasn't done, I don't think it would matter to me.
Abhishek Sharma Even a healthy person needed eco once a year. 😂
Rose Madura Deena, my cardiologist says every 5 years unless of course he hears something he doesn't like. I eve ... Read more
Rose Madura Deena, my cardiologist says every 5 years unless of course he hears something he doesn't like. I even got him to wait another six months actually till I went on Medicare because I wanted to save some money.
Marie Myers My cardiologist is doing mine at 1 1/2 yrs interval now. If it is normal, I am guessing he will sugge ... Read more
Marie Myers My cardiologist is doing mine at 1 1/2 yrs interval now. If it is normal, I am guessing he will suggest 2 years next. Obviously , if I have symptoms or something dramatically changes, I would call him. I am okay with extending time between echos if that is the new evidence-based updated guidance. We have changed a lot of “standard protocols “ in my time, including decreasing the 4 grams of amoxicillin to only 2 grams of amoxicillin for dental visits. That seemed pretty radical, but it turned out to be safe…
Susan Lynn My cardiologist does an EKG before every appointment, but he only orders echos every three years.
J Alexander Lassally Gotta find someone who will "work the system" to give you annual echos !!!
Deena Z Thanks so very very much, everyone. Really helpful!!!! So there are quite varying opinions on the ... Read more
Deena Z Thanks so very very much, everyone. Really helpful!!!! So there are quite varying opinions on the “protocol”. Interesting, Marie, on the change in amoxycillin before dental appts. - as well as Rita having two visits per year. Might be a good question for one of Adam’s webinars.
Kath Duggan I was also told that every 3 years was the protocol after the post heart surgery echo….I don’t li ... Read more
Kath Duggan I was also told that every 3 years was the protocol after the post heart surgery echo….I don’t like the idea of waiting so long☹️
Dental guidance re: endocarditis, thought this might be helpful:
Had my dental cleaning appt today. Spoke to dentist about endocarditis (pre and post ...Read more
Dental guidance re: endocarditis, thought this might be helpful:
Had my dental cleaning appt today. Spoke to dentist about endocarditis (pre and post surgery), since there has been so much discussion on HVS lately. He said cardiologists and cardiac surgeons ought to be telling all patients about the importance of clean, healthy gums and why. I do not remember such guidance after prolapse diagnosis nor post surgery. For example, a sign of unhealthy gums are those that bleed, when flossing. He was not saying unhealthy gums were the main reason for endocarditis before or after surgery, but rather such puts you at-risk.
Valarie Sullivan I have only had one cardiologist even mention about teeth and gum care. Not even my latest Dr has sai ... Read more
Valarie Sullivan I have only had one cardiologist even mention about teeth and gum care. Not even my latest Dr has said anything. Several years ago, I had my teeth worked on and mentioned my heart issue and asked about taking an antibiotic and he told me that the medical society no longer feels it is necessary. What?
Deena Z Hear ya, Valarie. Yes, the medical society does not recommend it anymore, but they ought to recon ... Read more
Deena Z Hear ya, Valarie. Yes, the medical society does not recommend it anymore, but they ought to reconsider. My dentist said why take the risk?! (possibly all the concern on the over use of antibiotics swayed the medical society’s decision.)
Kimberly Eisenhut Valarie, Thank you for this! We need to ask Adam to interview some of the heart specialists and surge... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Valarie, Thank you for this! We need to ask Adam to interview some of the heart specialists and surgeons who see endocarditis and see what they have to say. I will be getting antibiotics from now on. I do not have bleeding gums and got my 1st cavity at 50 years old, so have pretty healthy teeth, but it is just not worth the chance of doing more damage as heart valve patients. I am now questioning the decisions of my cardiologist about other issues and decissions for my heart health. Be your own advocate is key I guess. It just makes me sad if an individual has difficulty advocating for themselves, then who will? Not everyone has the luxury of having close family or friends who are willing or able to help with these things. Blessings to everyone and I promise I will be more positive in my next post
J Alexander Lassally Yes - agree - the dental community pendulum has swung far the other way - the wrong way - for heart v ... Read more
J Alexander Lassally Yes - agree - the dental community pendulum has swung far the other way - the wrong way - for heart valve patients...
Mary Jewett My son and I both had aortic valve replacements six months apart at age 56 and 26 in 2020. Since the ... Read more
Mary Jewett My son and I both had aortic valve replacements six months apart at age 56 and 26 in 2020. Since then both our family doctor and cardiologist (we share the same doctors) have always recommended antibiotics for dental visits. I should mention that eight months before my son had his heart surgery he contracted endocarditis resulting in multiple brain bleeds and had to undergo lifesaving brain surgery that he was not expected to survive. Obviously he did, thank God, and perhaps this is why our doctors and dentist all have been insistent on taking the antibiotics before each dental appointment. In that regard, every dental appointment be it a simple cleaning or some work that needs done, 4 antibiotics one hour before our appointments every single time. Perhaps it is also something still recognized here in Canada but not so much in other locations, I'm not sure.
John Russo I’m living (thank God) proof of why it’s so important to take antibiotics before any dental visit ... Read more
John Russo I’m living (thank God) proof of why it’s so important to take antibiotics before any dental visits. I had MVP with mild regurgitation and explicitly asked my former cardiologist if I need antibiotics before going to the dentist. He said it’s not recommended anymore. I had a routine dentist appointment in May and was sick for months afterwards. My teeth & gums are very heathy and I still wound up with endocarditis. This disease was so difficult to diagnose. I was told I had pneumonia twice which was actually congestive heart failure. It took me 3 months of every doctor under the sun to catch it. They finally caught it by doing a blood culture. All of my valves were affected by this. Heading to Mt Sinai on Oct 1st & having a complex surgery on Oct 3rd. ❤️🙏🏻
Yumiko Ishida Wishing you a successful surgery, John! I agree with you all that more education is needed, for docto ... Read more
Yumiko Ishida Wishing you a successful surgery, John! I agree with you all that more education is needed, for doctors and patients. When I was first diagnosed with MV stenosis 30 years ago I was told to take antibiotics before every dental appointment. That changed some time ago, not sure exactly when. Some expert decided that the risk of developing antibiotic resistance outweighed the risk of infection. So before my valve replacement I was not taking antibiotics. Now I do!
Richard and Rose, Saw your posts!! So kind. And yes, for sure, I have not had another OHS. Thanks for wondering!! Believe me, if I was going to get... Read more
Richard and Rose, Saw your posts!! So kind. And yes, for sure, I have not had another OHS. Thanks for wondering!! Believe me, if I was going to get another zipper closure I would be blabbing all-over-HVS!!
(tried to send you direct postings, but at-this-time HVS did not permit.)
Richard Munson Ditto with the direct post to you. Did not permit.
Did anyone get some sound advice from your cardiologist or surgeon as to how high to push the HR during exercise? ...Read more
MAX Heart Rate:
Hi everyone,
Did anyone get some sound advice from your cardiologist or surgeon as to how high to push the HR during exercise? Also- any insight as to how a high rate during exercise can cause more harm than good to a repaired valve?
I have gotten mix advice. My cardiologist said “not to push too hard”; one surgeon on HVS.com said don't go over 140 beats per minute (no age adjustment) and in my cardiac rehab they applied the usual algorithm using my age, regardless of surgery.
Thanks for any insight!
J Alexander Lassally Nooooooooooo. Knowledge desert here, my friend. Mine said "You can do whatever you want." Granted, t ... Read more
J Alexander Lassally Nooooooooooo. Knowledge desert here, my friend. Mine said "You can do whatever you want." Granted, this is the same west coast team which usually had the answer. "Umm, I don't really know that for a mitral valve patient." I am going to ask CC cardiologist once again for a mature recovery patient peak range !
Valerie Allen J Alexander, I’ll be interested in what they say!
Maggie Ma For post surgery recovery (within one month), PT told me HR below 83 is low effort zone, between 83 a ... Read more
Maggie Ma For post surgery recovery (within one month), PT told me HR below 83 is low effort zone, between 83 and 132 is medium effirt. But shouldn’t over 132. If over 132, it’ll have negative effect to the heart
my cardiologist asked me not to over 150 before surgery, but full recovery I assume max HR will go back normal. My max HR before my first AFIb appears is 189
Jennifer Gannon I trusted the cardio. They seemed to be really watching all my levels and adjusted as needed based on ... Read more
Jennifer Gannon I trusted the cardio. They seemed to be really watching all my levels and adjusted as needed based on how my heart and vitals responded.
Maggie Ma I would say just listen to your body - you’ll feel it when you push to much - max HR will change wi ... Read more
Maggie Ma I would say just listen to your body - you’ll feel it when you push to much - max HR will change with how fit you’re overtime. When I first joined Orange theory, they use normal age as estimate . With more and more classes later on , they are updating my Max HR based on my performance at class regularly
Deena Z Thanks everyone! J - look forward to what CC has to say. May ask our Adam as well!
Darrell Malone Hello I'm just getting started with my Cardiac Rehabilitation this is run through the hospital that I ... Read more
Darrell Malone Hello I'm just getting started with my Cardiac Rehabilitation this is run through the hospital that I had my surgery. I met my Kinesiologist on Friday and this is a guideline she made for me based on my stress test. I'll go on a limb and say it is different for everyone. I start on Tuesday and Thursday and go for 12 weeks. It is supervised by the Cardiac Rehabilitation Team
Dan Fouratt I tried to get a specific range from several and failed. The story line is each person is different. ... Read more
Dan Fouratt I tried to get a specific range from several and failed. The story line is each person is different. I have began to increase BPM and listen to my body. I did a stress test where I hit 151 and my MAX is 157 (okay I am 63) no one seem to be excited. In rehab I hit a run at 120 BPM for 40 minutes and 85% is 133. Was asked how I felt and I said fine and no one was excited.
Daneen Douglas Thanks for the chart! Great info Darrell and Dan!
Yumiko Ishida It is my understanding that high BP is more of a concern when it comes to long term damage. As long a ... Read more
Yumiko Ishida It is my understanding that high BP is more of a concern when it comes to long term damage. As long as your HR comes down as soon as you slow down, you should be fine. You just don’t want to be stuck in a highish range for too long. That is like being in afib all the time, which is exhausting and can definitely cause damage.
Dan, you don’t want the medical professional to get too excited!
Deena Z Thanks Dan for your rehab sheet! Am going to print it out. Yumikio, agree that BP is the bigger issu ... Read more
Deena Z Thanks Dan for your rehab sheet! Am going to print it out. Yumikio, agree that BP is the bigger issue. I am not going to go to my max. HR though, until i know more. Median way for now:)
Doug Fults Over some 30 years of leaky Mitral valve , I've always been told my exertion level wouldn't have any ... Read more
Doug Fults Over some 30 years of leaky Mitral valve , I've always been told my exertion level wouldn't have any affect on the heart valve, neither helping it nor hurting it. Fast forward to this April, it's now considered severe. I received rather mixed advice at my local hospital from "do anything you want" to "you need surgery, you should not be doing anything strenuous at all" - no mountain biking, no hiking hills - and even instructed not to travel to a niece's wedding, advice which I'm happy to have ignored. I self-referred to the Cleveland Clinic for evaluation, and am now scheduled for mitral repair surgery. Advice from Cleveland r.e. exercise was "Yes, we want you in good shape going into surgery, please do continue to exercise" and with regards to intensity, "As long as you can hold a conversation, you're fine. Just don't go crazy. Don't decide to start training for a marathon or start a weight lifting program." I'll be re-asking the question r.e. post-op recovery.
Patsy Elaine Stewart Ava, Missouri Patsy Elaine Stewart - aged 65 years, 10 months, and 6 days old - entered into Heaven on November 30, 2023 after a lengthy battle against congestive heart failure and pulmonary edema at Cox South Medical Center in Springfield, MO. She passed sleeping, gracefully, with
Rose Madura Very sad, she was an inspiration to all of on HVS. No more suffering for her. She's at peace now. ... Read more
Rose Madura Very sad, she was an inspiration to all of on HVS. No more suffering for her. She's at peace now.
Deena Z (So true Rose. I was going to post a note to her today to say hi etc, and thought given all that ... Read more
Deena Z (So true Rose. I was going to post a note to her today to say hi etc, and thought given all that happened last year and we had not heard from her to check the web.)
Susan Lynn Deeply saddened to read this news about our dear Patsy. She'll be missed by all of us on this site ... Read more
Susan Lynn Deeply saddened to read this news about our dear Patsy. She'll be missed by all of us on this site and I suspect by everyone who had the pleasure to know her. Keeping her son in my prayers.
Ana Brusso Oh my dear hvs godchild, thank you for letting us know of our very talented, strong and faithful serv ... Read more
Ana Brusso Oh my dear hvs godchild, thank you for letting us know of our very talented, strong and faithful servant of The Lord “Patsy”. She has united with her dear husband in heaven. I have been praying for her and her son Andrew. Will continue to keep him in prayer. She loved him so much. ✝️🙏❤️
Rita Savelis Such a positive obituary describing everything Patsy loved.
Well, just had my two-year post surgery echo. Have mild stenosis (already) occurring on my mitral valve repair. Was concerned about this happening, because ...Read more
Well, just had my two-year post surgery echo. Have mild stenosis (already) occurring on my mitral valve repair. Was concerned about this happening, because of the severe calcification. If anyone has any experience with this, besides the eventual valve replacement, would love to hear about it. - mostly any way slow the stenosis….
Bill Peterson I think you have the right surgeon. I needed a mitral valve repair re-do ten years after my initial ... Read more
Bill Peterson I think you have the right surgeon. I needed a mitral valve repair re-do ten years after my initial surgery. Tons of research told me that 1) re-do surgeries are very specialized and tricky, and 2) Dr. David Adams is the guy you want doing this. Three years after Dr. Adams did my re-do surgery, my valve is still perfect. I have no experience with stenosis but if you need a second surgery, you're in a good place.
Richard Munson I have no words of wisdom deena other than you are in my prayers , as a richard favorite, to overcome ... Read more
Richard Munson I have no words of wisdom deena other than you are in my prayers , as a richard favorite, to overcome this situation. I know when i had my repair the word calcification never came up so perhaps i did not have any. I agree that it sounds like you have the right surgeon.
Marie Myers Not what you want to hear, I am sure. I am not sure if the same advice applies to mitral stenosis, b ... Read more
Marie Myers Not what you want to hear, I am sure. I am not sure if the same advice applies to mitral stenosis, but for aortic stenosis, i have read advice to keep BP and cholesterol in check, as well as eating a healthy diet. Just curious if you are on a statin?
Deena Z Thanks everyone. ❤️My best layperson “guess” is that this is due to my really bad LDL. Marie ... Read more
Deena Z Thanks everyone. ❤️My best layperson “guess” is that this is due to my really bad LDL. Marie, I have to get shots (plus statin) to get my LDL (bad cholesterol) down to almost nothing. It The LDL goes down but not really the calcification. It’s genetic. Diet and exercise makes little to no dent.
Klara Čičić Oh dear Deena, I am so sorry to hear this. Having your valve repaired in the first place was absolute ... Read more
Klara Čičić Oh dear Deena, I am so sorry to hear this. Having your valve repaired in the first place was absolutely amazing as most of the surgeons would probably just replace it. If you'll need it re-done, Dr. David Adams would be the guy to do it, or one of his apprentices, as you probably know. I don't think there is a way to slow the process besides the usual care for cardiovascular system - regulate BP, heart rate, monitor lipids, healthy diet, reduce stress... Keep us updated, please!
Rose Madura Oh Deena, I'm sorry to hear this. It's certainly not what you have expected. Praying for you as you... Read more
Rose Madura Oh Deena, I'm sorry to hear this. It's certainly not what you have expected. Praying for you as your continue down this journey.
Grace Mason hope it stays mild for many more years.
Deena Z Thanks everyone!!❤️❤️. If i gather any useful info, will share
Ana Brusso Oh my hvs godchild, I just read this. You will be in my prayers for a good solution to this. God bles ... Read more
Ana Brusso Oh my hvs godchild, I just read this. You will be in my prayers for a good solution to this. God bless you my dear. Keep us posted. Love ❤️ and prayers 🙏😍🥰🤗
Susan Lynn Deena - I'm sorry to read this news. Hopefully, the stenosis will remain mild and you won't have a... Read more
Susan Lynn Deena - I'm sorry to read this news. Hopefully, the stenosis will remain mild and you won't have a need for a replacement. If you ever do, I suspect that the the approaches will be so advanced that it will be a non-event. Live your life and you'll handle whatever is ahead with the same tenacity you have in the past. All the best.
Deena Z Thanks for the love and guidance my HVS godmom and Susan my hvs angel. I do hope I can “stretch” ... Read more
Deena Z Thanks for the love and guidance my HVS godmom and Susan my hvs angel. I do hope I can “stretch” this problem out, though what i read is that is usually not the case.
Ana Brusso Always remember that God is in charged. You will be just fine, you’ll see.
Hi everyone, so…. I have been at the beach (Maui) and I met an anesthesiologist while swimming. I told him how much I dreaded getting nauseated after ...Read more
Hi everyone, so…. I have been at the beach (Maui) and I met an anesthesiologist while swimming. I told him how much I dreaded getting nauseated after open OHS and he said that it can be prevented. Whatta, really?! Said next time ask for TIVA which is intravenous, rather than with gases, because it is the gases that makes one sick.
Marie (Meyers) was thinking based on your professional surgical experience you might know about this?!
Rose Madura Only our great Deena (angel sister) would meet an anesthesiologist while swimming in Hawaii!!! I di ... Read more
Rose Madura Only our great Deena (angel sister) would meet an anesthesiologist while swimming in Hawaii!!! I did not have nausea after OHS because I mentioned to them that experienced that with my hysterectomy.
Deena Z Funny, Richard! The waves put me under! Sister Rose, good for you.❤️. I told two anesthesi ... Read more
Deena Z Funny, Richard! The waves put me under! Sister Rose, good for you.❤️. I told two anesthesiologists that I would take pain over nausea, and they replied that if I was sensitive to the gasses, expect to be sick.
Marie Myers Yes, that can be true. But if you use a lot of narcotic intravenously, you can make someone sick also ... Read more
Marie Myers Yes, that can be true. But if you use a lot of narcotic intravenously, you can make someone sick also. For cardiac surgery, it does take some narcotic to blunt the physiological response ( hypertension, tachycardia) that occurs from cutting the sternum. Narcotics are one of the quickest, easiest ways to blunt that response. When you have a short, quick, painless procedure( like a colonoscopy) the anesthetist/anesthesiologist can use only IV drugs like propofol (Diprivan) for a great, no nausea, quick wake up anesthetic. But with a long, invasive surgery like open heart, some narcotics are usually needed. The good news is that there are now shorter acting narcotics, so that the narcotic side effects may be minimized or absent. Anti nausea drugs are also given to counter the possibility of nausea. However there are never guarantees..Anesthesia is as much an art as a science, and a careful blend of IV drugs and inhalation can yield great effects. Hope that explains it a bit more.
Susan Lynn Deena - I never had general anesthesia before OHS so I did ask the anesthesiologist about preventing... Read more
Susan Lynn Deena - I never had general anesthesia before OHS so I did ask the anesthesiologist about preventing nausea right before surgery. He instructed the nurse to put something in my IV. When I awoke, I didn't have any nausea - I felt rested and relaxed. Whatever he did, it worked like a charm!
Ana Brusso LOL Richard, it was vodka. I never experienced nausea so they must have put a lot of that in me. YEAH ... Read more
Ana Brusso LOL Richard, it was vodka. I never experienced nausea so they must have put a lot of that in me. YEAH! 😂
Thomas Brusstar When I was in the ICU upon waking from surgery, they gave me an oral pain medication (maybe tramodol? ... Read more
Thomas Brusstar When I was in the ICU upon waking from surgery, they gave me an oral pain medication (maybe tramodol?) and I told them I was starting to feel nauseous. They put a drug in my iv and 10 seconds later it absolutely went away. So just be alert when they try anything new and tell them. By 48 hours after surgery I was down to regular strength Tylenol. I preferred some brushes with pain upon movement etc. to the side effects and weird feeling of serious pain relievers.
Greg Lewis They put something in my IV!! .. got hung on a doorway, squished in the elephant scale, stuck in a d ... Read more
Greg Lewis They put something in my IV!! .. got hung on a doorway, squished in the elephant scale, stuck in a doorway, saw Diana and I in the machine that makes you look good, visited the man with the toy trucks...but, hmm...nope, no nauseous feeling!! ...lol
Deena Z Thanks all for the shares. Marie and Susan - some good info to remember, not that I want another maj ... Read more
Deena Z Thanks all for the shares. Marie and Susan - some good info to remember, not that I want another major surgey❤️😎🙂
Miriam St Clair- hope she is well. She had some intensive surgery at the Cleveland Clinic about 4 weeks ago. Sent her a note over a week ago, but no reply. ...Read more
Miriam St Clair- hope she is well. She had some intensive surgery at the Cleveland Clinic about 4 weeks ago. Sent her a note over a week ago, but no reply. (Yet).
If you are taking any prescriptions, bring the bottle(s) to the hospital or the actually written script, otherwise it will ...Read more
ANOTHER HOSPITAL PACKING ITEM
If you are taking any prescriptions, bring the bottle(s) to the hospital or the actually written script, otherwise it will not be given to you. I took my statins, etc. in a pill box to the hospital, but was told not to take them, because I did not have a script. Not sure how it was handled for others, when relevant.
Rose Madura Interesting. My medicines were all part of my record with the health network so I was even given sup ... Read more
Rose Madura Interesting. My medicines were all part of my record with the health network so I was even given supplements like a multivitamin because it was in my record
Adam Baumgartner Rose same for me. They told me not to bring any meds with me and they had it all covered.
Deena Z Interesting. So maybe what I experienced was the exception. I was out of state and in a differen ... Read more
Deena Z Interesting. So maybe what I experienced was the exception. I was out of state and in a different health network. Still you wld think that this info could have been easily confirmed beforehand, huh.
Patsy Stewart Deena, it’s a good idea to have your prescribed medications in its original bottles with you. I use ... Read more
Patsy Stewart Deena, it’s a good idea to have your prescribed medications in its original bottles with you. I use to leave them at home because the hospital I go to doesn’t want you to bring them inside the hospital. When I had OHS, the pharmacy didn’t have one of my medications and couldn’t get it, so they told me to have Larry bring it from home….2 hours away. He made a special trip because Andrew was already there for visiting hours. They kept it locked up and dispensed it as needed and then returned my bottle the day I went home. Ever since then, I’ve packed my medications and have them in the bottom of my carryon until I know for sure that they have what I need in the hospital pharmacy. They told me the reason they don’t want your personal bottles in the hospital is because of theft. Yikes!
LA Heatley Great idea! They may not stock all of the medications you take and make sure the expiration dates ar... Read more
LA Heatley Great idea! They may not stock all of the medications you take and make sure the expiration dates are current.
Deena Z Patsy, yikes indeed, a 4-hour round trip to obtain a med. Lesson learned for me. Better safe than s ... Read more
Deena Z Patsy, yikes indeed, a 4-hour round trip to obtain a med. Lesson learned for me. Better safe than sorry. Thanks everyone for sharing your different experiences!
POST SURGERY BRA (support for those with their sternum cut)
Hi- somewhere one of our heart warriors was concerned about chest support post-surgery. ...Read more
POST SURGERY BRA (support for those with their sternum cut)
Hi- somewhere one of our heart warriors was concerned about chest support post-surgery. This is the bra I was given to wear while in Mt Sinai hospital (NYC) and post- discharge. It's purpose is to not have any pulling on your incision. What I liked was that it was front-closure and the velcro closure was so simple to use. Plus your chest is swollen after surgery, so you can adjust the velcro as the swelling decreases over about two weeks. Mt. Sinai gave them to me for free, so ask your surgeon's office if they supply something similar.
Sorry, this product is unavailable. Please choose a different combination.
Rose Madura Mine was similar -- with a velcro closure but it was more like a vest and covered my entire torso as... Read more
Rose Madura Mine was similar -- with a velcro closure but it was more like a vest and covered my entire torso as well. It was given to me at the hospital and I used it when I went somewhere or someone was coming to visit. Otherwise I went braless with a large t shirt!
I just read from Ginny and others that had annular rings (annuloplasty) that their surgeons instructed them to take a daily baby aspirin for... Read more
Baby Aspirin
I just read from Ginny and others that had annular rings (annuloplasty) that their surgeons instructed them to take a daily baby aspirin for life. -- to avoid the slight chance of a clot. I don't recall ever being told this by my hospital team. I have two rings (mitral and tricuspid). I took baby aspirin for two months post surgery and then was okayed to stop by my cardiologist. Would the warriors that had rings "installed" chime-in please as to whether they were told to do such or not? (I also read Adam's related post). Thanks much.
Neal Syverson I was told I would need to take baby aspirin the rest of my life for my mitral repair March 16th. As ... Read more
Neal Syverson I was told I would need to take baby aspirin the rest of my life for my mitral repair March 16th. As far as I know all mitral repairs use a ring.
George Gardopee I was also told to take the aspirin for the rest of my life. I had my mitral and tricispid repairs do ... Read more
George Gardopee I was also told to take the aspirin for the rest of my life. I had my mitral and tricispid repairs done at the Cleveland Clinic also. Both valves have rings.
Patsy Stewart I don’t have rings. I had a TAVR. I was told that I would have to take blood thinners for the rest ... Read more
Patsy Stewart I don’t have rings. I had a TAVR. I was told that I would have to take blood thinners for the rest of my life to prevent clots from forming around the valve implant. I was on Eliquis, but was bleeding too much. My cardiologist switched me to Plavix.
Susan Lynn Deena - I was told to take the baby aspirin for one year. There is new information about the downs... Read more
Susan Lynn Deena - I was told to take the baby aspirin for one year. There is new information about the downsides of daily baby aspirin for individuals without heart disease. The risks are now considered to outweigh the benefits. When in doubt, call your surgeon's office. Please keep us posted.
Deena Z Thank you, Neal, George, Patsy and Susan. I will ask my surgeon too and and get back to you. (CC re ... Read more
Deena Z Thank you, Neal, George, Patsy and Susan. I will ask my surgeon too and and get back to you. (CC recommends it for life; got that. :)
Dan Baltazor Hi Deena. I can't speak for annuloplasty, but my valve replacement surgery was in 2018 and I was tol ... Read more
Dan Baltazor Hi Deena. I can't speak for annuloplasty, but my valve replacement surgery was in 2018 and I was told I would be taking a baby aspirin a day for the rest of my life. Since then new data has come out, and since I was having pretty extreme digestive issues I went back to my cardiologist to discuss it. He explained that the valve is well seated and I don't have heart disease so the aspirin isn't needed anymore in my case. It's worth a trip back to your Drs to find out what's best for your case.
Deena Z Thanks, Dan. So, everyone.... my surgeon's office, Dr. Adams at Mt Sinai in NYC, told me that I do ... Read more
Deena Z Thanks, Dan. So, everyone.... my surgeon's office, Dr. Adams at Mt Sinai in NYC, told me that I do not need to take baby aspirin after three months post surgery. The NP said that by three months my valve rings and sutures are "covered" by skin, hence clotting is no longer a factor. The NP said my cardiologist might want me to take baby aspirin for other reasons, such as if I have high cholesterol, but that's a different issue. Maybe it depends on the type of ring that is "installed" or professional judgment. Both Mt. Sinai and CC are top notch, so surprised there is this difference.
Susan Lynn Deena - This is interesting! We've also seen differing opinions on other meds/duration after the s... Read more
Susan Lynn Deena - This is interesting! We've also seen differing opinions on other meds/duration after the same OHS procedures. Many of these scripts/OTCs are precautionary and intended to prevent common post-op complications. I have an Edwards Life Sciences Annuloplasty ring and high cholesterol. I'm over 4 years out from my surgery and none of my physicians, cardiologists or otherwise, has recommended daily aspirin. I'm actually happy about that as I have always bruised like a banana! Thanks for the info!!
Brady Busch I'm about six months after surgery,which most likely included a ring for the mitral repair.They've ha ... Read more
Brady Busch I'm about six months after surgery,which most likely included a ring for the mitral repair.They've had me on baby aspirin since,but unsure for how much longer.
FOR THOSE OF YOU IN THE PROCESS OF SELECTING A MITRAL VALVE SURGEON:
https://www.modernhealthcare.com/safety-quality/aha-mitral-foundation-urge-mitral-valve-repair-over-replacement-recognition-program ...Read more
FOR THOSE OF YOU IN THE PROCESS OF SELECTING A MITRAL VALVE SURGEON:
https://www.modernhealthcare.com/safety-quality/aha-mitral-foundation-urge-mitral-valve-repair-over-replacement-recognition-program
The American Heart Association recommends that patients who require surgery for mitral regurgitation be sent to centers expert in mitral valve repairs. But up until recently there was no standard way that patients and physicians could identify the best surgeons and hospitals for mitral valve repair surgery.
Wine and lifting weights. Hi everyone, I am about 10 weeks post op. I have been invited to a Memorial Day neighborhood get together and was wondering when ...Read more
Wine and lifting weights. Hi everyone, I am about 10 weeks post op. I have been invited to a Memorial Day neighborhood get together and was wondering when it is okay to drink wine. I am pretty sensitive to alcohol, can't drink much and don't want to have any set-backs with my heart muscle healing. Also, I just started cardiac rehab after a four week wait. For those with a sternum incisions, when were you able to lift heavier objects (> 5-8 pounds) and use weights, nautilus machines, etc. I won't get to this part of rehab until another month or so and am wanting to move forward. (aka-- patience is waning:).
Dylan Kempers Hi Deena, in terms of alcohol, I think it depends on what meds are you taking right now. For instance ... Read more
Dylan Kempers Hi Deena, in terms of alcohol, I think it depends on what meds are you taking right now. For instance, I had surgery almost 6 weeks ago. I'm on Amiodarone, Eliquis, Metoprolol and Aspirin. My cardiologist told me I cannot have any alcohol for the moment.
Richard Munson Drinking is always good. Makes you forget you had surgery. Lol.
Cameron Peek Glad you are making progress and got into rehab.
Deena Z Thanks Michael and Dylan for the info. Dylan, I am on Metoprolol (12.5mg, 2x per day and a baby aspi ... Read more
Deena Z Thanks Michael and Dylan for the info. Dylan, I am on Metoprolol (12.5mg, 2x per day and a baby aspirin) . Might be off it in two weeks, depending if my heart rate stays down. Will ask my doctor about the meds mixing with alcohol, when I see him in two weeks. Michael, I am going to start lifting and see how my chest feels. My surgery was about one week before yours. I just want to "normalize"!
Richard-- drinking would help fade the memory of the surgery. lol. My eyesight still is not the same since the surgery. no alcohol needed there.
Richard Munson I had my surgery in mid january and i still get occasional bouts of blurry vision. I go to an eye doc ... Read more
Richard Munson I had my surgery in mid january and i still get occasional bouts of blurry vision. I go to an eye doctor this week for a check up. When this occurs i can only say that i get a little lightheaded but not dizzy. I told my wife the last time that i feel a little off. She said i have been a little off for years. Comedian.
Deena Z Richard, it will be interesting to hear if your eye doctor can provide an understanding and remedy f ... Read more
Deena Z Richard, it will be interesting to hear if your eye doctor can provide an understanding and remedy for your occasional lightheadedness and blurry vision, and the connection w OHS. Wish you well! (i I don’t have blurry vision, rather my near and farsightedness have both deteriorated, since surgery. Will give it more time, before getting it examined.)
Richard Munson My bet is he will find nothing. Plus my meds are now at pre surgery levels and had no issues then. Th ... Read more
Richard Munson My bet is he will find nothing. Plus my meds are now at pre surgery levels and had no issues then. That only leaves OHS as the most likely cause. It has improved as the weeks go by . Less instances. I can usually tell upon rising in the am if it will be an issue that day. Also it rarely occurs outside. I will pass on eye doctor comments after i go this week.
Deena Z Thanks for passing on the comments, Richard. Ditto for me when I see my cardiologist in two weeks. ... Read more
Deena Z Thanks for passing on the comments, Richard. Ditto for me when I see my cardiologist in two weeks. Reading online it seems that the eye bouts are due to loss of blood flow to the optic nerve during surgery, but what do I know... technical issue.
Paul Rose Hi Deena, 4oz wine curls should be fine🍷😎 as for heavier weights nothing heavier than a milk c ... Read more
Paul Rose Hi Deena, 4oz wine curls should be fine🍷😎 as for heavier weights nothing heavier than a milk carton until 12 weeks and then get into a Cardio Rehab program if you can. As my surgeon said, listen to your body and it will let you know. Slow and steady is best apparently (I didn’t as I’m way too competitive) but in hindsight. Probably should have - I detailed my rehab in my Journal)
I still get the occasional eye bouts 9 years on. Good luck with the recovery - I wish you all the best
A Bit of Humor (And some truth)
My husband told me today that we should really measure my improvement in recovery by “PR”.
“PR”? I replied.
“Yes, ...Read more
A Bit of Humor (And some truth)
My husband told me today that we should really measure my improvement in recovery by “PR”.
“PR”? I replied.
“Yes, pillow reduction. You are down one pillow on the bed!!”😂
Adam Pick Love it Deena! 😂😂😂😂 In my house these days, with an active 12-year old on my hands, I ty ... Read more
Adam Pick Love it Deena! 😂😂😂😂 In my house these days, with an active 12-year old on my hands, I typically reserve PR for a "Personal Record".... During one of his runs or swims. But, in the context of heart surgery, I think "Pillow Reduction" is quite appropriate. Thanks for the laugh and thanks for bringing back that post-op memory. 👍👍👍👍
Victoria Baker I liked this also, Deena. I was just telling someone I didn't know what I would have done without my ... Read more
Victoria Baker I liked this also, Deena. I was just telling someone I didn't know what I would have done without my mechanical bed. I have had a mechanical bed for a long time and never ever used it until after I had my open heart surgery. Honestly, I wondered what others did without a mechanical bed at home. (it was really handy)
Dentist - post OHS
Did anyone get guidance from their surgeon or cardiologist as to when it is safe to go to the dentist after open heart surgery? I just ...Read more
Dentist - post OHS
Did anyone get guidance from their surgeon or cardiologist as to when it is safe to go to the dentist after open heart surgery? I just cracked my cap tonight. I really dont want endocarditis. Have an email into my cardiologist, as well.
Lynn Loudermilk they told me 6 months and antibiotics 2 hours before appointment.
David Smith I was told a minimum of three months post op
David Smith And the antibiotics 2 hours before and after
Deena Z Thanks, Lynn and David. I am only at 21 days, so I just might have to go toothless. (Oh boy)
Marie Myers I had to have a root canal done just a few months after my AVR . With antibiotics, it is possible to ... Read more
Marie Myers I had to have a root canal done just a few months after my AVR . With antibiotics, it is possible to get the treatment you need. I would say , get to the dentist and get it evaluated. Then speak with your cardiologist to get the OK if you need to proceed with treatment.
Kathy Kulig I was told 6 months and antibiotics prior to appointments like Lynn said. But if you have an issue, I ... Read more
Kathy Kulig I was told 6 months and antibiotics prior to appointments like Lynn said. But if you have an issue, I'd contact the cardiologist and dentist. They may see you right away and recommend pre-antibiotics. Good Luck!
Deena Z Thanks Marie and Kathy for the added feedback. So.... my surgeon said 3 months unless it is urgent d ... Read more
Deena Z Thanks Marie and Kathy for the added feedback. So.... my surgeon said 3 months unless it is urgent dental work, which Marie, your root canal had to be.
I am just 3.5 weeks from surgery, so that takes me to 2.5 months before my crown can be fixed. After the OHS wait and all else that followed, I can be patient!!!
Thanks everyone.
Susan Lynn Deena - (Please accept my advice for what it's worth.) I worked for a group of dentists including a p ... Read more
Susan Lynn Deena - (Please accept my advice for what it's worth.) I worked for a group of dentists including a prosthodontist many years ago. Leaving your crown-prepared tooth exposed can lead to bigger issues especially if it's sharp or susceptible to breakage. Crowns are generally placed over compromised teeth, i.e, those with big fillings, chipped, root canaled, etc. If the partial tooth fractures, then you will have an emergency. Also, If your tooth is out of occlusion, you may also experience shifting or maybe even super-eruption. Your dentist should be able to carefully re-cement your crown or create a new temporary to hold you over without putting you at risk. I would still pre-medicate, though. I'm sure you don't want to question your surgeon, but maybe you should also ask your dentist. Good luck! Btw - I also have crowns - I feel your frustration!
Deena Z Thanks Lynn so much for your advice. I did tell my dentist that I was concerned about the tooth that ... Read more
Deena Z Thanks Lynn so much for your advice. I did tell my dentist that I was concerned about the tooth that has the crown over it decaying over two months. They didnt really respond except to say that I could have the dentist look at it to determine risk.
So let me call them back and ask to schedule this visit. Because of covid delays, the dentist is booked until August, so I have to go on a wait list. Crazy huh?! The surgeon said it is essentially the job of the dentist to determine if it is an emergency. A bit circular.
Normalizing.
I am 16-days out from surgery and counting every day. My taste buds seem to have normalized and my appetite is back. Ice cream is my new food ...Read more
Normalizing.
I am 16-days out from surgery and counting every day. My taste buds seem to have normalized and my appetite is back. Ice cream is my new food group. That said, I have stayed away from anything caffeinated. Usually coffee is the only thing that gets me up in the morning. Now getting rid of my back ache does. Was wondering for those of you that had OHS, if and when you started back on caffeine. Mt Sinai in NYC mostly told me to stay off it, while several of the clinicians there said I could have "a small amount". I think coffee is too much, but was wondering about tea. I read that Adam went back at about "several weeks". Thanks for sharing your experience!
David Smith I only have two cups now and French vanilla ice cream is my new crutch. Quit Mountain Dew and chocola ... Read more
David Smith I only have two cups now and French vanilla ice cream is my new crutch. Quit Mountain Dew and chocolate. I’ve never had to diet until now. Sucks!
Deena Z cool, how many weeks out did you start drinking coffee again? Right there with you re: ice cream. M ... Read more
Deena Z cool, how many weeks out did you start drinking coffee again? Right there with you re: ice cream. Makes me feel good. A keeper. You stopped smoking and that is amazing, so don't get hard on your self about the diet stuff. I quit in 2000 and it was the best thing ever. Now....ice cream time, strawberry shortcake tonight. :)
Susan Lynn I had my husband bring me Dunkin' Donuts coffee in the hospital. I had no idea it was restricted! ... Read more
Susan Lynn I had my husband bring me Dunkin' Donuts coffee in the hospital. I had no idea it was restricted! I've had one mug every day since then, too. I can't function without it. ☕❤
David Smith I was drinking coffee three days post op in my step down room. It was slightly watered down but it wa ... Read more
David Smith I was drinking coffee three days post op in my step down room. It was slightly watered down but it was high test. No decaf. Oh yeah...don’t read the back of ice cream carton. My biggest issue is I love really good craft beer. Can’t have that anymore according to the Coumadin warnings. Ice cream replaced that.
Lynn Loudermilk they let me have coffee and I did every day and still do
Deena Z This is too funny. I am sitting in the hospital with prune juice and ginger ale, and you all are dri ... Read more
Deena Z This is too funny. I am sitting in the hospital with prune juice and ginger ale, and you all are drinking coffee. I know we all have different medical situations so not apple-to-apple comparison, but I love that Lynn had take out coffee every day. (laughing). Now we are talking! David-- yeah, ice cream has tons of cholesterol. I don't do Ben and Jerry's, the heavy duty cream kind because of that, but there's lots of intermediate choices. (particularly Breyers and Nestle ice cream shortcake pops!). Lynn and all, have a great cup of coffee tomorrow am. cheers!
David Smith 😂 I had my share of prune juice and anything else that could get things “moving”. Coffee actu ... Read more
David Smith 😂 I had my share of prune juice and anything else that could get things “moving”. Coffee actually did the trick I think....but probably the meds were more like it
I had coffee as soon as I woke up from surgery. I was never told not to have it. I have two cups a da ... Read more
I had coffee as soon as I woke up from surgery. I was never told not to have it. I have two cups a day. Used to mix decaf with caffeine but now I just do caffeine.
Tom Everson I had to wait 24 hours after surgery and had no limits caffeine of course
Rose Madura I have been a coffee drinker since I was 9 years old and my Mom let me dip cookies in it. Before and ... Read more
Rose Madura I have been a coffee drinker since I was 9 years old and my Mom let me dip cookies in it. Before and after surgery I've drank it but after surgery, I cut back to one, maybe 2 cups a day. I drink it with a little cream. And I eat Bryers ice cream - homemade vanilla is my favorite.
Lisa Coombe I stopped drinking coffee july last year, I hardly drink tea and just stick to water while I wait for ... Read more
Lisa Coombe I stopped drinking coffee july last year, I hardly drink tea and just stick to water while I wait for my ohs
Rita Savelis I was served coffee in the cardiology ward and have always drunk it. Everything in moderation. No one ... Read more
Rita Savelis I was served coffee in the cardiology ward and have always drunk it. Everything in moderation. No one ever told me to stop any food or drink.
I think you should drink or eat whatever works for you. Everyone is different. You know your body better than the doctors who will often give standard protocol advice. You're not standard, you're unique.
And Dave , it's perfectly okay to have a beer while on coumadin. Everything in moderation.
Lynn Loudermilk Deena I still drink it but cut down to 2 cups a day. I could easily drink 4 but don't anymore.
Lynn Loudermilk Denna I am also keto and will continue that, I use heavy cream in my coffee, not in the hospital but ... Read more
Lynn Loudermilk Denna I am also keto and will continue that, I use heavy cream in my coffee, not in the hospital but at home and they all know I am keto. I feel better eating this way. I also do not have "heart disease" it was just my valve. Only started with higher blood pressure when my valve got worse. I am down to 25mg or blood pressure meds was on 100mg a day and it got tooo low. They said I prolly won't be needing that after my next appointment.
Deena Z Thanks all! Had my first cup of tea today and went well. Building up to coffee (soon). I always u ... Read more
Deena Z Thanks all! Had my first cup of tea today and went well. Building up to coffee (soon). I always use some 1/2 &’1/2. Cant drink it black!
Patsy Stewart You might call your cardiologist’s office and see what they say for your particular situation. If t ... Read more
Patsy Stewart You might call your cardiologist’s office and see what they say for your particular situation. If they said not to drink coffee, I would say don’t drink it. If they said to limit your intake, I would drink a cup of coffee in the morning if that’s your favorite time to drink it. I’m not a coffee drinker, but I’m certain it was on my tray every morning until I got to choose my own meals. Then they ask me if I was a vegetarian. Ha! I love vegetables and fruit is always a safe bet in the hospital. Those white chocolate mocha drinks from Starbucks are another story. I love those and I enjoy a cup every now and then. Enjoy your tea until you get the go ahead to drink your coffee.
Cheryl Mann I may ask my husband to smuggle in some good coffee for me.... There is a caribou coffee across the s ... Read more
Cheryl Mann I may ask my husband to smuggle in some good coffee for me.... There is a caribou coffee across the street.
Deena Z Hey Cheryl, those little pleasures count. Coffee makes my blood pressure go up, so that is why I am ... Read more
Deena Z Hey Cheryl, those little pleasures count. Coffee makes my blood pressure go up, so that is why I am staying off it for now. The cardiac rehab nurse I just spoke to said that for some people coffee actually has the opposite effect, it calms them down or at minimum, does not include their BP. If true, then a rule of thumb as to whether to drink coffee or not, is simply how your well body normally reacts to it! Clearly, while I was drinking prune juice and ginger ale, my fellow warriors were enjoying a SAFE cup to coffee.:)
Cheryl Mann Hopefully I won’t need to add prune juice to my coffee... I prefer mochas...
Recovery side. Hi all. Short note to say the surgery went well. Heart is fixed!!! Repaired tricuspid valve as well aa mitral. Very fatigued. every day gets ...Read more
Recovery side. Hi all. Short note to say the surgery went well. Heart is fixed!!! Repaired tricuspid valve as well aa mitral. Very fatigued. every day gets better. For now, best advice is that for any pain, naseau etc yooubfeel, tell the icu nurse asap. Dont wait for it to go past a 5 on a 1 to 10 scale. Thanks for your tremendous support!!
Joseph Heinzmann Happy to see you are on the mend, Deena. Great advice not to wait until things get bad before asking ... Read more
Joseph Heinzmann Happy to see you are on the mend, Deena. Great advice not to wait until things get bad before asking for help. Keep recovering.
Patsy Stewart Praise God you’re on this side of it and now headed to recovery! You’re getting ready to have the ... Read more
Patsy Stewart Praise God you’re on this side of it and now headed to recovery! You’re getting ready to have the strongest core muscles that you’ve ever had by learning how to get up and down without using your arms. Go, Deena!!
Cheryl Mann Glad you are doing well. Very good advice regarding speaking up early about pain and nausea. My tho ... Read more
Cheryl Mann Glad you are doing well. Very good advice regarding speaking up early about pain and nausea. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Hi Deena, welcome to recovery. Praying your recovery is smooth and speedy. God bless you
Lynn Loudermilk I ditto everyone, welcome to recovery! Hope it is smooth sailing!
Deena Z Thank you, everyone. Love being on the other side. Time to give forward. (And rehab eventually)
Mike Dotson Way to go. Let the healing and recovery begin!
Boy, did I learn a lot today. Fascinating.
Mt Sinai is impressive. Smart, compassionate staff. Finally met Dr. Adams in-person, beyond than the one zoom ...Read more
Boy, did I learn a lot today. Fascinating.
Mt Sinai is impressive. Smart, compassionate staff. Finally met Dr. Adams in-person, beyond than the one zoom call. Even MORE impressive in-person, not just as a surgeon, but in being genuine and wanting to move the field forward.
Had the chest x-ray. Everyone’s sternum is differently angled, so important to know before opening-up. I had a MRSA test too; came back positive, so have ointment to take via nostrils. (Not the blood borne MRSA). I can actually put some hair product in my hair, so I will decrease my odds of looking totally haggard. The closing of the chest takes a lot of time, at least 45 minutes l, super important as you can understand. My heart will be stopped for about 90 minutes, not likely to negatively impact memory. Pain is not really from incision, more from the operating on the heart. Once pain gets to level 5 on a ten scale, ask for more. (Got that one!). Can eat anything the night before, did not know about carbo loading, but I think this may happen in the future, given current research.
How will I feel when I wake up? like a truck hit me”. “. Will tell you what that exactly equates too!!!
i am so tired of theses procedures being done when there are other procedures that do not "Saw Your Chest Open"
I had mine done by Dr Balkyy University of Chicago, as Rush University wanted to saw me open too. Dr Balkhy does both Minimal Invasive Port access and a pioneer in the Da Vinci Aortic Valve Replacement.
Things like Medicare Advantage allow the Hospitals & Health institutions to still saw you open like they did on my mother 50 years ago because they do not need to update doctors and staff to something easy for the Patient.
If I were you, and you read this, I would reconsider your surgery. It is pain and trauma, and very likely can be avoided.
I was standing with some help some hours after my valve was put in.
30 days later they added 3 more stents.
With covid, still active, you do not need to subject yourself to the added rist of open heart surgery or the trauma.
You can see the full operation by Dr. Lamelass on youtube, even a 90-year-old practicing Physician
You deserve better, we all do and this is just WRONG.
Dr. Joseph Lamelas, chief of cardiac surgery at UHealth, University of Miami Health System, discusses the benefits of the Miami Method, a minimally invasive ...
Susan Lynn Deena - You sound more than ready to put this behind you. You've done your research and have confide ... Read more
Susan Lynn Deena - You sound more than ready to put this behind you. You've done your research and have confidence in your surgeon - that's exactly where you should be! There will be a lot going on, but you will have the experience of a very quick nap and it will all be over! Don't worry too much about the process, just listen to the nurses once you get to the CICU and you'll be on your way home before you know it. We'll be here cheering for you! Looking forward to your post-op good news!
Husam H. Balkhy, MD, is a pioneer in the field of minimally invasive and robotic cardiac surgery.
Deena Z Thanks for the positive energy Lynn right before my surgery! Such a nice way to go in!
Rita Savelis Hello. For many patients (like me) OHS is not painful. The description is more very very uncomfortabl ... Read more
Rita Savelis Hello. For many patients (like me) OHS is not painful. The description is more very very uncomfortable. And you may feel like a mac truck hit you when you wake up because of the shock on your body. But for me it wasn't "painful" and I didn't feel the need for pain meds. But I was uncomfortable and exhausted for a long time. It felt very different from other surgeries because of this. I had 2 valves replaced, a third valve repaired and eventually a pacemaker implanted (a few weeks afterward). I wish you all the best. It's a hard experience because you can not know what yours will be like. Everyone is singular. Every recovery is normal. Take care.
Patsy Stewart I have been thinking of you throughout the day and praying that everything went well during and after ... Read more
Patsy Stewart I have been thinking of you throughout the day and praying that everything went well during and after surgery. Looking forward to hearing good news.
Packing tonight, hitting the road tomorrow for NYC from VA for surgery at Mt Sinai. For those of you that had your sternum "tattooed", can you tell me how ...Read more
Packing tonight, hitting the road tomorrow for NYC from VA for surgery at Mt Sinai. For those of you that had your sternum "tattooed", can you tell me how hard it will be to put on a pair of sweats and Tee shirt? As in two days after surgery and then a week? Thank you much.
Susan Lynn Deena - Safe travels and all the best with your procedure. Sweats are a good idea, but you may pre ... Read more
Susan Lynn Deena - Safe travels and all the best with your procedure. Sweats are a good idea, but you may prefer a button down shirt or full front zipper top. You may also prefer a looser fitting bra or none at all. Initially, you'll want to avoid pull over tops for a week or two. Good luck! ❤
Marie Myers I agree with the button down shirts. Reaching up with pull on shirts and reaching for things on high ... Read more
Marie Myers I agree with the button down shirts. Reaching up with pull on shirts and reaching for things on high shelves were both a no-go for me for a couple weeks. Going braless was a winner for me also.
Joseph Heinzmann I had robotic and was on no pullovers, zip/button for the first week. I can't imagine doing anything ... Read more
Joseph Heinzmann I had robotic and was on no pullovers, zip/button for the first week. I can't imagine doing anything different. Marie, I went braless, too, and nobody noticed.
Deena Z Gotcha! Thanks, Lynn, Marie and Joseph. I cant imagine how it feels, so very helpful. (Funny, Josep ... Read more
Deena Z Gotcha! Thanks, Lynn, Marie and Joseph. I cant imagine how it feels, so very helpful. (Funny, Joseph)
Patsy Stewart I definitely agree to the button up shirts for several days after your surgery. Lifting your arms abo ... Read more
Patsy Stewart I definitely agree to the button up shirts for several days after your surgery. Lifting your arms above your head was on the ‘do not do’ list. I would also suggest to make sure that your pants are easy to pull up..nothing tight or binding to have to tug on. As for wearing a bra....what’s that? Ha! I took mine off and haven’t looked back! It’s liberating! I wore one to my first appointment and was told to take that thing off. I wear undershirts with the pseudo bra sewn in or just regular undershirts. Just make sure that the elastic isn’t too tight in the midriff for your incision.
Prayers for peace and calm and great success.
Deena Z Patsy-thanks! I am reworking my clothing in the luggage now.
Lynn Loudermilk Patsy yea no bra here either I think it will be a while.
Lisa Gohn Safe travels and prayers for a successful restoration.
Pre-surgical meal
Did anyone get some good advice about how to minimize post surgical nausea? Not sure if it is due to the anesthesia and/or the pain medicine. ...Read more
Pre-surgical meal
Did anyone get some good advice about how to minimize post surgical nausea? Not sure if it is due to the anesthesia and/or the pain medicine. I read to carbo load the night before surgery, but another website said to add more protein. Water? Will also ask my surgeon during pre-op visit this Wed. Thanks!
Marie Myers As a nurse anesthetist for 41 years, I think nausea is mainly due to narcotics used in surgery and fo ... Read more
Marie Myers As a nurse anesthetist for 41 years, I think nausea is mainly due to narcotics used in surgery and for post op pain management. I know my anesthesia team gave me all the right anti nausea meds, but I still had some nausea and vomiting the first 2 days post op. After the first 2 days, I did not experience any nausea, and I was using only Tylenol for pain. Wishing you a nausea-free experience!
Lisa Coombe In my hospital book that I have said “have a fruit and vegetable diet a week before surgery”
Deena Z Wow, Marie, straight from the source, your being a nurse anesthetist. Thank you. I'm not sure if th ... Read more
Deena Z Wow, Marie, straight from the source, your being a nurse anesthetist. Thank you. I'm not sure if there is silver bullet, particularly given you did all the right things. (darn it). Lisa- thanks for sharing what your hospital books says, that's a long time, 7 days, for such a lean diet. At least include chocolate:)
Thomas Brusstar My only nausea came in the ICU right when they put some mineral in my IV, like potassium or something ... Read more
Thomas Brusstar My only nausea came in the ICU right when they put some mineral in my IV, like potassium or something. It was definitely the supplement. I felt it right away, told them, and they quick gave me an anti-nausea med in the IV and it stopped immediately. I was glad not to be wretching with all the tubes hooked up and my chest so fresh!
Rose Madura I did not experience any nausea. I told the anesthesiologist beforehand that I had it with my hyster ... Read more
Rose Madura I did not experience any nausea. I told the anesthesiologist beforehand that I had it with my hysterectomy so maybe he gave me something. I don't know.
Marie Myers The medication ondansetrom (Zofran) is a very effective anti nausea med, though it is not 100% effect ... Read more
Marie Myers The medication ondansetrom (Zofran) is a very effective anti nausea med, though it is not 100% effective for every situation, unfortunately.
Deena Z Thanks Thomas and Rose for sharing your good news and Marie for providing more medical insight. Hope ... Read more
Deena Z Thanks Thomas and Rose for sharing your good news and Marie for providing more medical insight. Hopeful, will definitely talk to the anesthesiologist about my prior nausea experience. Michael- heads-up too!
Lynn Loudermilk I ddin't have dinner before I stopped eating at 1:30 in the afternoon. Did fasting and told them som ... Read more
Lynn Loudermilk I ddin't have dinner before I stopped eating at 1:30 in the afternoon. Did fasting and told them sometimes I get nauseated from anaestesia, i had no issues they had given me stuff for it.
Adam Pick Very interesting thread... Thanks for sharing everybody!
Deena Z I did find this page by Abbott that recommends carbo loading before surgery (e.g., apple, cranberry o ... Read more
The stress that happens during surgery can lead to many complications during recovery. Learn how eating before and after surgery can help your recovery process
I didn’t have any nausea and ate well the day before and after surgery kept on eating. Sorry I can ... Read more
I didn’t have any nausea and ate well the day before and after surgery kept on eating. Sorry I can’t give you any insight on this issue. Asking your surgeon Pre op is a great idea.
Rita Savelis Please let your surgeon/anasthesiologist that you are prone to nausea and he/she will put something i ... Read more
Rita Savelis Please let your surgeon/anasthesiologist that you are prone to nausea and he/she will put something in your dose that helps with that. I used to have terrible nausea after anasthesia but since I've spoken about it to anasthesiologists things have changed. I had no nausea when waking up from OHS. There were plenty of other uncomfortable feelings but no nausea. Wishing you the best.
Deena Z Thanks Ana and Rita for sharing your experience and advice. I am DEFINITELY going to speak with the ... Read more
Deena Z Thanks Ana and Rita for sharing your experience and advice. I am DEFINITELY going to speak with the anesthesiologist. I am also going to ask for "carbo loading" before surgery; there is considerable evidence to do so, as recommendations, but not yet enough to be told to definitely do such. I thought that meant I could load on the pasta the night before, which sounded delightful, but the articles referred to drinking fast acting carbs such as those in apple juice, grape juice, etc. Will get back to everyone about carbo loading answer.
Leo Johnson My wife and I split a pizza the night before I checked in for surgery. No nausea here, but really sl ... Read more
Leo Johnson My wife and I split a pizza the night before I checked in for surgery. No nausea here, but really sleepy post op. As for clothing, I went with the double hospital gown (1 front,1 back) my whole stay. Made life easier for everyone.
Deena Z I love pizza!! (And ice cream)
So maybe over thinking it.
Well, as my cardiologist rang-in the New Year to me, he said "2021 is my year". He was referring to the fact that we have been literally watching my mitral ...Read more
Well, as my cardiologist rang-in the New Year to me, he said "2021 is my year". He was referring to the fact that we have been literally watching my mitral valve prolapse and calcification for 13 years and now my left atrium was mildly dilated as well left ventricle. Every year that has passed since I was diagnosed I was so happy, because I was wanting the technology to advance to the point where I could have robotic or some other type of minimally invasive surgery. But, alas, I have not just three leaks in my mitral valve, but severe calcification. I didn't realize that the severe calcification would eliminate me for minimally invasive surgery. Actually, I am relieved that the science and human talent has evolved to allow me to get a repair! So... this is why I choose David Adams at Mt. Sinai in NYC as my surgeon. He is incredibly talented, specializes in mitral valve repair and told me he could definitely perform a "life time repair". Holy cow. Great.
So, there we have it. I will be on Adam's "bulletin board" for having surgery this March 18th. I feel good about getting it over and being able to push my body harder eventually such as in spinning class, but also anxious. I think of it as a "pyramid of anxiousness". At the top, are the "Biggies", as I call them: Will I survive and will I have any co-morbidities such as a stroke? Then we continue down the slope and get to breathing tube, pain, infection, etc. I try to focus on being happy with getting over the "biggies", because that's what it is really about. The rest is more short term stuff. But can't kid myself, it is all daunting.
I have read lots of your blogs and appreciate all the tips. I didn't even know that I needed to bring a tooth brush. :) . Have never been hospitalized. The suggestion to bring PJ bottoms or sweat pants will be really handy, so thank you all!!!
Deena Z we are in this together, Cheryl, welcome! What a crazy ride.
Great that you are a nurse, you will ... Read more
Deena Z we are in this together, Cheryl, welcome! What a crazy ride.
Great that you are a nurse, you will know what and how to ask for things. Mayo - awesome hospital! You have the most important aspect taken care of.
Mike Ridenour That Ding Ding Ding...all I see is Apollo Creed ! Pray you have the same fight and intensity!
Lynn Loudermilk Oh yes I am full of anxiety. Tuesday is my day and yes scared. We can do this.
Deena Z Thanks Mike for the laugh. I am not Rocky, but I definitely have fight in me! Lynn, just think in o ... Read more
Deena Z Thanks Mike for the laugh. I am not Rocky, but I definitely have fight in me! Lynn, just think in one week you will be over the surgery and getting ready for discharge to go back home. It's not possible to have OHS and not have anxiety but that is different then it taking over your well being. Yes, we can do this!!
Lynn Loudermilk Deena thank you. This past few days have been terrible.
Thomas Brusstar Dr. Adams is definitely one of the mitral valve rock stars! A friend had hers repaired by him 2 year ... Read more
Thomas Brusstar Dr. Adams is definitely one of the mitral valve rock stars! A friend had hers repaired by him 2 years ago. Glad you’re doing it soon, as the enlargement of the heart is not good. We monitored mine over the years, but my valve went “flail” soon after one of my echo tests, so I think I went like 9 months before we realized it needed repair NOW. My left atrium was almost 4 times larger than normal, and has come way down but it still permanently enlarged. Your heart is looking forward to the relief from having a functioning mitral valve again! Bring an extra-long phone charger cord, too, and chapstick.
Deena Z Hi Thomas, thanks for the reassurance and advice, helps bolster my nerves! I have been in a pretty g ... Read more
Deena Z Hi Thomas, thanks for the reassurance and advice, helps bolster my nerves! I have been in a pretty good mindset and then last night had somewhat of a nightmare about it, so some "slippage". Dang unconsciousness, can't fool it. Great idea, regarding extra long phone charger, it has plugged into be in a wall outlet, right? --Not like hotels where the phone charger is my your beside, huh. Got it, chap stick. I do have a question about my follow-up visit after surgery. It said that I would be assessed by a NP. I was hoping that my one of my two surgeons would be checking me out...
Ruby Hondros Hi Deena,
I feel for you as I was going through a long process, over 5 yrs of checking on mitral valv ... Read more
Ruby Hondros Hi Deena,
I feel for you as I was going through a long process, over 5 yrs of checking on mitral valve prolapse and severe regurgitation and concern of heart becoming enlarged. I was initially planning on seeing Dr Adams with and know he's one of the best, but was hoping for robotic repair. With covid going on, I happened to check out Dr Hashim in Hartford, Ct, as I also have a home in Ct. He, too is one of the best in mitral valve repair and whenmi met with him, I knew he would be my surgeon. In fact, I was originally scheduled, to have my operation in October, but the day of, it was cancelled as I had a fever, and ultimately had an infection in my blood, and ended up in the hospital for 1 week and then home for 5 weeks with antibiotic infusion. I was rescheduled for January 12, and he performed a mini mitral valve repair, avoiding thru sternum, that I was hoping for. I'm so glad that he was my surgeon, and I am healing very well, now 2 months since surgery, and started cardio rehab last week. You'll be glad to get this behind you. Looking forward to hearing how you do.
Deena Z Thanks so much, Ruby. You choose your surgeon well, given you were able to have minimally invasive. ... Read more
Deena Z Thanks so much, Ruby. You choose your surgeon well, given you were able to have minimally invasive. What a relief that must have been for you. Will update you when in recovery!
Adam, you were excellent on the Martinez show.— articulate, informative, passionate. Thxs for representing us and the issues so well. #next.round.morning.TV!!!! ...Read more
Adam, you were excellent on the Martinez show.— articulate, informative, passionate. Thxs for representing us and the issues so well. #next.round.morning.TV!!!!
Latest:
Held a video conferencing visit with Dr. Adams at Mount Sinai (NYC) about my mitral valve. --Have severe regurgitation and severe calcification. ...Read more
Latest:
Held a video conferencing visit with Dr. Adams at Mount Sinai (NYC) about my mitral valve. --Have severe regurgitation and severe calcification. He recommended surgery within the next nine months. Dr. Adams was outstanding! I will be speaking with the Cleveland Clinic via video in two weeks. I know both of these hospitals and respective surgeons are top notch. Does anyone know of pros and cons in helping me decide where to go?
Also, this may be a stupid question, but is there a best time (season) to get the surgery? Summer is already booked, so it is either this Fall, Winter or early Spring. (Winter seems not ideal, given it can get really cold in Virginia and walks outside would be more limited.) This Fall is an option, just that COVID will probably still be a major issue. Spring seems far off, and thinking about this surgery for so long is not great for my mental health:) I know I am fortunate that I have the option of determining when.
Thank you for your advice!
Herb Greenberg I'm biased because I had aortic-valve surgery at CC three months ago, going there from San Diego. I l ... Read more
Herb Greenberg I'm biased because I had aortic-valve surgery at CC three months ago, going there from San Diego. I liked the fact that it is a heart hospital - that the ICU/step-downs are cardiac-centric. As many will say, CC is a machine ... in the best of ways. The entire process was high quality. In the end, you need to trust your surgeon and pick one who focuses on your situation. Dr. Adams has a great rep, as do the CC mitral valve surgeons. I also liked the connected hotel - worked very well for my wife. But that was pre-covid, which was a world away. (Tip: The biggest complaint I had about CC was the people at the reception desks. In general, not friendly. But I'm spoiled by San Diego! Still, once you got behind the doors, even the labs, all was forgotten.)
Adam Pick Hey Deena, Great to hear you had a consult with Dr. Adams.
He is a great doctor and person who I ... Read more
Adam Pick Hey Deena, Great to hear you had a consult with Dr. Adams.
He is a great doctor and person who I have been fortunate to get to know over the years.
You are doing a great job doing your research. We have had many, many, many, many, many, many, many patients have successful heart valve surgery at Mount Sinai and Cleveland Clinic!!!
Phyllis Petersen I have a similar story to you. Assumed to have the heart murmur most of my life, diagnosed with regur ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen I have a similar story to you. Assumed to have the heart murmur most of my life, diagnosed with regurg at 48, severe at 62. I chose to go to Cleveland Clinic and have Dr. Gillinov do my surgery. I knew about him from this site and was happy that he would do my surgery. One of my considerations was having robotic surgery, which is, I believe, in both the hospitals you're considering. I, too, liked having the hotel walking distance from the hospital. It was a strangely electric atmosphere with several groups walking from the hotel to the hospital at 5:30 am for surgery. This was pre-Covid, so I was able to have a family member with me. It's a difficult choice with great surgeons in both hospitals. I liked that CC had pretty much every base covered. I didn't have any problems with reception; pretty much everyone was welcoming and efficient. I should have used their concierge more and read the huge binder they gave me. They really do have an incredible system, as well as incredible staff.
Deena Z Herb, thanks for sharing. Well oiled is a good way of summing-up CC. That must have been a big reli ... Read more
Deena Z Herb, thanks for sharing. Well oiled is a good way of summing-up CC. That must have been a big relief every step, every day. You and your wife’s postings are really helpful, insightful. (She is an artful writer!)
Adam- yep, I really liked Dr. Adams. What I especially like was his experience with severe calcification on the mitral valve. He said he could still repair it. Please know that your video interviewing Dr. Adams (with the cardiologist from Mayo) made me definitely want to speak with him. He is genuine and a mega-talent.
Phyllis- thanks!! Our chronologies are very similar! I have severe calcification, so robotics was ruled out by Dr Adams and probably will be by CC.
I will ask CC how long the wait is for Dr. G. to perform my surgery. Heard it can be many months, unless it is urgent.
So glad Herb and Phyllis that you are doing incredibly well!! - that’s inspiring. Will update you as I move through the next step and speak w CC.
john roland I had my aortic valve replaced 2 months ago at CC. I thought they were terrific and I called it a wel ... Read more
john roland I had my aortic valve replaced 2 months ago at CC. I thought they were terrific and I called it a well oiled machine. I give them 10 stars top to bottom.
Deena Z Hi there John, so great that you are over the “hump” and healing so well. Thxs for the reassuran ... Read more
Deena Z Hi there John, so great that you are over the “hump” and healing so well. Thxs for the reassurance re: CC.! No doubt that CC is superior
Phyllis Petersen Deena, I was fortunate to not have calcification nor plaque build-up. There are minimally invasive te ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen Deena, I was fortunate to not have calcification nor plaque build-up. There are minimally invasive techniques other than robotic. My echo showing severe regurg was in January and I had my surgery in October. I was able to do much of my initially testing at my local hospital. My cardiologist, Dr. Janardhanan, and his assistant did an incredible job of coordinating everything with Dr. G at CC and here in Tucson.
Paola Gonnet I also had my AVR at CC, I agree with John that CC is a well oiled machine, I am doing extremely we ... Read more
Paola Gonnet I also had my AVR at CC, I agree with John that CC is a well oiled machine, I am doing extremely well back to normal and feeling great, I also did an extensive due diligence and picked CC based on outcomes, number of surgeries/year, innovation in surgical techniques and surgeon expertise.
Can anyone provide me info as to how much lead time is needed with the Cleveland Clinic to get on their patient list, If the surgery will happen within 6 to ...Read more
Can anyone provide me info as to how much lead time is needed with the Cleveland Clinic to get on their patient list, If the surgery will happen within 6 to 9 months.
I contacted CC and received forms to complete re: a second opinion, but not an understanding of the process and timing.
I am debating whether to get my mitral valve surgery there or at Johns Hopkins in. Baltimore, MD or fairfax INOVA hospital in Northern VA, where I live.
Thanks much!!
John Hannon I’ve had surgeries scheduled there twice and both scheduled within a month of communicating with th ... Read more
John Hannon I’ve had surgeries scheduled there twice and both scheduled within a month of communicating with them. First one my cardiologist did all the coordinating and all I had to do was schedule the date and show up. Second time was through the second opinion process like you’re doing. That one was more complicated to get worked out and I ended up not going there (first voicemail I listened to after coming out of surgery was from them giving me the workable surgery dates). I’d say if you have all the tests done that they ask for it’s never too early to get it to them and once they have it they’ll be very willing to work with you.
Jeff V. Deena, I had MV repair surgery at the CC by Dr. Pettersson. My experience was similar to John's... m ... Read more
Jeff V. Deena, I had MV repair surgery at the CC by Dr. Pettersson. My experience was similar to John's... my CC cardiologist recommended that I get the repair done within the next 6 months. He organized the details with the surgeon and I was then contacted within one week by the surgeon's office to schedule. I was offered approx. six dates in a 2 - 3 month window. I arrived 3 days prior to surgery for pre-op tests and then stayed 5 days post-op. Check out my journals if you like.
Deena Z Hi John and Jeff, I can not thank you enough for your real life info!!! So, helpful!!!
Deena Z Hi John and Jeff, I can not thank you enough for your real life info!!! So, helpful!!!
It seems the cardiologist acting as the liaison with CC is pivotal (though mine prefers for me to stay at INOVA Fairfax in Northern VA), which is where he practices. I have enough time to start the second opinion process, so thanks John for explaining the difference in time, etc.
Jeff, read your journal, awesome! (Could visualize each step!).
Congrats to you both for successful surgeries and staying healthy. Must be such a relief!!!
Chris Calhoun get it done as quickly as the virus subsides - I had a stroke doing the wait and see game and it was ... Read more
Chris Calhoun get it done as quickly as the virus subsides - I had a stroke doing the wait and see game and it was worse than the entire heart procedure
Deena Z That’s awful to have both occur, Chris. I was reading through your journal. I hope that your stro ... Read more
Deena Z That’s awful to have both occur, Chris. I was reading through your journal. I hope that your stroke rehab went well, and that your current issue can be resolved effectively. Get a second and third opinions, if not done yet. Looks like your surgery was performed in JAX?...
For those of you, particularly Richard’s heart angels:), that saw my post two weeks re: broken sternum wire, Mt Sinai in NYC said the bottom ...Read more
For those of you, particularly Richard’s heart angels:), that saw my post two weeks re: broken sternum wire, Mt Sinai in NYC said the bottom wire is not broken. And even if it was, it is not a big deal. Happens fairly often, radiologist said.
He continued to say the x-ray of my fractured ribs does look like a broken wire to those untrained in reading a post-heart surgery x-ray. The seemingly broken wires were actually side views of my two annulus rings on MV and TV.
I tried uploading a photo of the x-ray, but it not clear enough.
Crazy, but glad!!!
J and Pamela, ditto! It’s a wonder ... Read more
J and Pamela, ditto! It’s a wonderful feeling when i called Mt Sinai in NYC almost four years after my surgery they continued to be so responsive.