Jesse's Journal

Roselyn Kubek   Hi Jesse-I am 63 and had the same condition with a tissue valve replacement 13 weeks ago. There is so much to learn and so many possible directions that it can be overwhelming. At my age and with otherwise excellent health, I had all options open to me Though none was the “perfect” fit. But you will know the approach that is right for you when you get to it - At least that was my experience after two months of extensive research and I interviewing surgeons from 4 major hospitals (Mt Sinai inNY to discuss Ross procedure, Tufts in Boston to discuss TAVR, Beth Israel Boston to discuss all three. In the end, I chose to go tissue valve and SAVR for a number of reasons that felt right to me. My surgeon was Kamal Khabbaz at Beth Israel. I can’t say enough good things about the team there. Anyway, my suggestion isto interview as many surgeons as you want that insurance will allow, weigh what they say against what it is important to you (ie I did not want to be on Coumadin for several reasons, waNted more data on TAVR and bicuspid valves,and I had a smaller valve and wanted to be in a better position for TAVR in the times ahead). Anyway, whatever you decide will be the best choice for you as long as you are confident in your surgeon. Good luck! PS At 13 weeks I am doing quite well with no real complications- There is another side.

Jesse Althen  Hello Roselyn, thank you so much for taking the time to share your story, and confirming the one common item it seems at least all patients agree on, which is do your homework and don't be afraid to ask for multiple options from different professionals. Congratulations on your successful journey so far, and good luck on your continued success.