Interesting information for all of us.
Mechanical Versus Bioprosthetic Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients Aged 40 to 70 Years: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. ...Read more
Interesting information for all of us.
Mechanical Versus Bioprosthetic Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients Aged 40 to 70 Years: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26794881
Ann Thorac Surg. 2015 Dec 15. pii: S0003-4975(15)01764-6. doi: 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2015.10.092. [Epub ahead of print] REVIEW
Debra Gann Thanks for the article. I'm 58 and have chosen bio valve. My problem though is diagnosis of Bicuspid. ... Read more
Debra Gann Thanks for the article. I'm 58 and have chosen bio valve. My problem though is diagnosis of Bicuspid. I have been reading about the equine tissues longevity. I'm trying to get a definitive diagnosis for decision making because the atf3 equine valve is contraindicated with Bicuspid valve. Haven't found answer as to why.
Jim Kelly-Evans Debra...the abstract states: "This systematic review supports the use of bioprosthetic valves in pati ... Read more
Jim Kelly-Evans Debra...the abstract states: "This systematic review supports the use of bioprosthetic valves in patients younger than the current recommendation of 65 years." Therefore, I think you are making a wise choice with a bioprosthesis.
Ed Miskovic At Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Dr McCarthy used a bovine tissue based on statistics that at my ag ... Read more
Ed Miskovic At Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Dr McCarthy used a bovine tissue based on statistics that at my age, 69, this last a very long time 25-30 years. But replacement is much sooner for younger ages.
Robert Osmachenko Thanks for pulling this up. Not sure what a meta-analysis entails but I'm sure there is a high coeff ... Read more
Robert Osmachenko Thanks for pulling this up. Not sure what a meta-analysis entails but I'm sure there is a high coefficient of variation in the results of prosthetic vs. mechanical. Summary: Just as broad as it is long.
Debra Gann I'm impressed with the knowledgable responses. This website is more informable then having to scout ... Read more
Debra Gann I'm impressed with the knowledgable responses. This website is more informable then having to scout around in various places. I really do appreciate all the information. I know bicuspid is only present in 2-4% of the population. I'm finding out that it is also managed a little differently because other connective tissue problems can be present.
What a great 4 month post-op echo report looks like: Summary 1. Left ventricle: Size was normal. Systolic function was normal by visual assessment. Ejection ...Read more
What a great 4 month post-op echo report looks like: Summary 1. Left ventricle: Size was normal. Systolic function was normal by visual assessment. Ejection fraction was estimated in the range of 55 % to 60 %. There were no regional wall motion abnormalities. There was mild concentric hypertrophy. Left ventricular diastolic function parameters were normal. 2. Aortic valve: A bioprosthesis was present. It exhibited normal function and normal motion. The leaflets appeared normal. There was a normal-appearing sewing ring and no rocking motion of the sewing ring. There was trivial aortic regurgitation. There was no significant perivalvular aortic regurgitation. Valve peak gradient was 12 mmHg. Valve mean gradient was 7 mmHg. The aortic valve obstructive index (by VTI) was 0.68. 3. Aorta, systemic arteries: The root exhibited mild dilatation, but represents proximal aortic graft after reconstruction of the proximal ascending aorta.
I was in Philadelphia last week for my first post-operation medical evaluation. My first post-op echocardiogram since discharge was completed and I met with ...Read more
I was in Philadelphia last week for my first post-operation medical evaluation. My first post-op echocardiogram since discharge was completed and I met with my cardiologist. Everything looks very good. My new aortic tissue valve is performing beautifully with no leakage and low gradients. This is good news. MY next appointment with my cardiologist is set for January, 2017. I am continuing cardiac rehabilitation, walking, and working with weights combined with stretching. The idea is to ward off becoming frail with age.
Pat Bluemel Good work Jim! you had an astounding story of post op recovery and I am glad it looks like you are d ... Read more
Pat Bluemel Good work Jim! you had an astounding story of post op recovery and I am glad it looks like you are done with doctors till the new year! Quite an inspiration to me.
In addition to my daily walks, I've started an exercise program that incorporates some exercises recommended in a recent issue of the AARP newsletter...stretching, ...Read more
In addition to my daily walks, I've started an exercise program that incorporates some exercises recommended in a recent issue of the AARP newsletter...stretching, body weight squats, touch your toes, etc. I'm combining that with a couple of exercises recommended by my scuba diving insurance company that are designed to improve upper body strength. I use two 20 lb hexagonal dumbells. The two exercises are pullups and pushups both done from a bent-knee position in the deck. Then I add some overhead lifts with the dumbbell one arm at a time, and some curls. I'm hoping that the body weight squats help improve the muscle tone in my left leg, which is somewhat atrophied due to a long ago bout of sciatica and arthritis in the knee. I'm trying real hard to stick to my low carb diet. My weight is good at about 190, down slightly from where I've been in recent months after my surgery. I stopped Warfarin last Tuesday with the blessing of my cardiologist so now the only pill is a daily aspirin. That made me happy. I have my first post op echo in a couple of weeks, but the valve seems really good. I have no palpitations or other symptoms and it really pounds shut. I know it's working, that's for sure! Finally, Monday I start cardiac rehab. I'm getting a late start due to the move to the summer cottage but I at least want to try some sessions to see if they are helpful.
Lewis Garlisi Jim, you've come a long way! Sounds like you are doing the right things.
Tammy Pilcher That's great news, Jim! Congratulations on your progress!
I'm feeling physically pretty well. This week I plan to start the ball rolling on joining a cardiac rehab program. It may help me to improve my conditioning. ...Read more
I'm feeling physically pretty well. This week I plan to start the ball rolling on joining a cardiac rehab program. It may help me to improve my conditioning. I want to try anyway. The results of my 24 hour Holter heart monitor were excellent with no arrhythmia or other abnormalities. My cardiologist took me off Amiodarone, of one of the remaining two heavier medications I'm taking. In three weeks I can stop the other (Warfarin) as long as I don't notice any palpitations or other irregularities. Then I will be completely off medications save for a daily aspirin and multivitamin. For the most part, I have made an amazing recovery from a very traumatic operation. I'm still working through mental and emotional thoughts and feelings that come with surviving such a trauma, compounded by the loss of my beloved dog, Bradley, while I was in the hospital. As I wrote at the time of my surgery, the whole experience has a surreal quality for me, and I often don't feel like I fully comprehend what happened and what the implications going forward are. This is not uncommon for heart surgery patients, The good news is that I am not debilitated or suffering from extreme depression. Hopefully things will straighten out for me with the passage of time and the loving support of my wonderful husband, who has always been there for me.
Eleanor R Good to hear from you Jim and to know you are moving forward with recovery. I bet you will feel bett ... Read more
Eleanor R Good to hear from you Jim and to know you are moving forward with recovery. I bet you will feel better off the Amiodarone, I know it kept me a bit down (tired, less appetite) and I had more energy once I stopped it. I hope you enjoy cardiac rehab, that gave me more confidence to do things on my own, since I had done the exercises so many times hooked up to a heart monitor and knew what to watch for. The mental recovery takes it own time, as your mind catches up with what your body experienced, but it sounds like you are moving forward with support. I am sorry about your pup, that must have been hard while you were hospitalized. They become such a part of our lives, don't they. take good care of yourself, and keep on getting stronger. Eleanor
Barry Van Gemert good to hear from you Jim, it has been a while. Happy your recovery is going well but sad to hear yo ... Read more
Barry Van Gemert good to hear from you Jim, it has been a while. Happy your recovery is going well but sad to hear you lost your dog. That is always difficult, but to lose her/him while in the hospital has to be especially difficult.
Pat Bluemel Good to hear an update Jim, glad to hear you are doing well. Get to rehab, moving your body and achi ... Read more
Pat Bluemel Good to hear an update Jim, glad to hear you are doing well. Get to rehab, moving your body and achieving goals in that program might help you start getting past the trauma.
Tim Goff It has been quite a while since your last post. I'm on the amiodarone too with some metropolol as wel ... Read more
Tim Goff It has been quite a while since your last post. I'm on the amiodarone too with some metropolol as well and can't stand either of them. Hoping for a repreive. Happy to hear you are continuing to make progress and wishing you the best moving forward.
jan murphy Glad you are doing well, you give me hope.I am five weeks post and get to stop the Amiodarone next we ... Read more
jan murphy Glad you are doing well, you give me hope.I am five weeks post and get to stop the Amiodarone next week. It's made me nauseated and appetite non existent.
Here's another comprehensive essay on aortic disease written by my surgeon, Dr. Grayson Wheatley at Temple University.
http://badaorta.com/an-open-letter-to-patients-with-aortic-disease/#comment-181 ...Read more
Here's another comprehensive essay on aortic disease written by my surgeon, Dr. Grayson Wheatley at Temple University.
http://badaorta.com/an-open-letter-to-patients-with-aortic-disease/#comment-181
Seven weeks post-op and doing two hour-long walks a day usually 6 to seven miles total. My afternoon walk yesterday:
Apr 10, 2015
Walking
3.32 mi
Distance ...Read more
Seven weeks post-op and doing two hour-long walks a day usually 6 to seven miles total. My afternoon walk yesterday:
Apr 10, 2015
Walking
3.32 mi
Distance 3.32 miles
Time 53:18
16:04 minutes per mile
Tammy Pilcher That is great, Jim! I'm only doing one of those a day at 5.5 months. I've got to step it up!
Bill Cherry Good going Jim!
Sounds like your recovery is coming right along.
Gerald Schaffer Jim, its amazing how far you've come considering you had a rough go of things right after your surger ... Read more
Gerald Schaffer Jim, its amazing how far you've come considering you had a rough go of things right after your surgery. Keep up the good work.
Nancy D WoW! you are passing me up by miles, at 7 weeks!! way to go! Guess at 7 months, I need to pick up t ... Read more
Nancy D WoW! you are passing me up by miles, at 7 weeks!! way to go! Guess at 7 months, I need to pick up the pace! Awesome job!!!
Be well!
Mary Myers Great, amazing Jim. You are a champion!
Mary Myers You have made me set high goals for me!!!! Keep up the awesome work!
Tim Goff Jim, your progress is inspiring and I couldn't be happier to hear how far you have come. Great Job!
I ... Read more
Tim Goff Jim, your progress is inspiring and I couldn't be happier to hear how far you have come. Great Job!
I am out 3.5 weeks now and walking 2 x 35-40 min with no ill effects (breathing etc). My HR is still running very high, but the docs don't seem the least bit concerned.
Keep up the great work!
A 13 day hospital day and two trips to the OR in February not withstanding, I'm doing well five weeks out. I'm walking three to four miles a day and meetings ...Read more
A 13 day hospital day and two trips to the OR in February not withstanding, I'm doing well five weeks out. I'm walking three to four miles a day and meetings with my surgeon and cardiologist went well. I can drive again on Wednesday and my list of meds is down to just a few. No matter how tough your surgery is or how weak you feel afterward, you will get better and stronger if you believe in yourself and keep a positive attitude.
Clare Auten Glad you are continuing to improve. I continue to pray for your recovery.
Bob M Great recovery! You are a tough survivor! Take it easy heart brother. Every day, better and stronger. ... Read more
Bob M Great recovery! You are a tough survivor! Take it easy heart brother. Every day, better and stronger.
Susan Bach 10 days post op here, so your words are encouraging .
Greg Johnson Jim. I'm 5 weeks out too. They still have me on warfarin and metropolol. What meds are you down too? ... Read more
Greg Johnson Jim. I'm 5 weeks out too. They still have me on warfarin and metropolol. What meds are you down too? I would really like to get med free by the end (10 weeks ) of this thing. It looks like they will keep me on warfarin for three months as a precaution. There are some studies that show theraputic use of warfarin post valve replacement reduces complications during the first few months.
Jim Kelly-Evans Greg, I'm on amiodarone and warfarin...dropped the metoprolol about a week ago. I have not had Afib ... Read more
Jim Kelly-Evans Greg, I'm on amiodarone and warfarin...dropped the metoprolol about a week ago. I have not had Afib since I was in the hospital, but my cardiologist wants me to continue with the amio for now. I'd like to get off of it. I have normal BP and heart rate. I agree with you...I think we will be on warfarin for three months.
Tammy Pilcher Good to hear you're recovering well, Jim! Take it easy, you've been through a lot!
Dan D. Jim, it sounds like you've had a rough go of it, but that the worst is over and you're on the upswing ... Read more
Dan D. Jim, it sounds like you've had a rough go of it, but that the worst is over and you're on the upswing. Thanks for the encouragement.
Terrie Syvertsen Jim- Glad to read you are able to "walk the walk!" I appreciate the attitude you share towards gettin ... Read more
Terrie Syvertsen Jim- Glad to read you are able to "walk the walk!" I appreciate the attitude you share towards getting the all important exercise into the day and how positive you are with all of us in sharing your progress. Continued healing!
Susan Bach We were worried about you Jim, but you have turned it all around. Great news!
Just a day shy of three weeks since my second trip to the OR. With the good weather I'm outside doing two hour long walks a day. My INR is in range, no pain, ...Read more
Just a day shy of three weeks since my second trip to the OR. With the good weather I'm outside doing two hour long walks a day. My INR is in range, no pain, still struggling with strength and endurance issues, but slowly making progress. You gotta be in for the long haul.
Nancy D yes, it isn't a quick fix for sure. But, I am way better now at 6 months than when I went in, and I ... Read more
Nancy D yes, it isn't a quick fix for sure. But, I am way better now at 6 months than when I went in, and I wasn't having major symptoms, really. I still feel endurance is slow to return, but know healing from this continues for about a year..so still hopeful to get there! You have been through it twice- and two hour walks a day is fabulous!!!!!! Wow! INR in range and no pain - two other reasons to rejoice!! Praying it is a steady forward progress for you from here on out! Take good care!
Barry Van Gemert You have to be loving this weather. Just what the doctor ordered!
Tim Goff Super news Jim! Slow and steady wins the race so keep up the work and it will pay off.
It's been two weeks since my second of two trips within five days to the OR. Medically things seem OK, no issues with my new valve or all of my surgical repairs, ...Read more
It's been two weeks since my second of two trips within five days to the OR. Medically things seem OK, no issues with my new valve or all of my surgical repairs, heart rate or BP, etc. I just had no idea how weak I would be and how painfully slow and difficult getting any strength back at all would be. I haven't felt quite strong enough to go out of the house yet, but with all of the snow and ice and cold here in Philadelphia I couldn't go anyway, so I have a major dose of cabin fever. It's supposed to warm up this week and I have my first follow-up appointment on Tuesday so hopefully I'll feel better after i finally get out and get some fresh air.
Tim Goff It has been a tough road for you Jim, but you are at least on the other side of it. Keep your eyes on ... Read more
Tim Goff It has been a tough road for you Jim, but you are at least on the other side of it. Keep your eyes on the prize of the second chance you have earned and keep it going. So many are pulling for you.
Bob M The worst is behind you heart brother ... Your surgery, your initial recovery and this winter. Take i ... Read more
Bob M The worst is behind you heart brother ... Your surgery, your initial recovery and this winter. Take it easy heart brother.
Janet R Jim, your strength and stamina will improve gradually from week to week. Cardiac rehab will get you ... Read more
Janet R Jim, your strength and stamina will improve gradually from week to week. Cardiac rehab will get you back too when you are ready. We will all feel better once we can back outside in nice weather. Better days ahead.
joni moore jim- looks like we picked the right time of year for recovery , we are not missing anything outside! ... Read more
joni moore jim- looks like we picked the right time of year for recovery , we are not missing anything outside! Every day is a healing day, and I find myself content just to "be", knowing that the day will come when I can walk outside again and enjoy the warm sun.
I had visitors yesterday, we sat in my living room for 2 hours, and when they left I was sooo tired, It suprised me that would wear me out, but it did.
So rest , rest rest, jim, keep smiling!! the worst is over!
Linda Crawford Jim, I think you will feel a little stronger each day until one day you will look back and be surpris ... Read more
Linda Crawford Jim, I think you will feel a little stronger each day until one day you will look back and be surprised at how far you've come. Glad you are over the big bumps anyway 😊
Just completed a 30 minute walk in the house sans walker. It wasn't that long ago that I couldn't even get out of bed. I have some puffiness in the ankles, ...Read more
Just completed a 30 minute walk in the house sans walker. It wasn't that long ago that I couldn't even get out of bed. I have some puffiness in the ankles, but other than that I have no complaints at all. I haven't taken a pain medication in a week. If I can continue to improve a little at a time like this I'm optimistic that I'll be walking outside soon...if Old Man Winter will give us a break here in the Northeast.
Janet R You will probably be doing marathons around the house before Spring in the Northeast. JK.
Curtis Jones Pretty soon you'll be throwing that walker away, good luck Jim
Nancy D Good job! walking will help the fluid in the ankles, drink water to help keep things flushing through ... Read more
Nancy D Good job! walking will help the fluid in the ankles, drink water to help keep things flushing through and moving.....Take good care!
Virginia (Ginger) French Fantastic news, Jim! I suspect by the time you are feeling fully fit, you will be able to manhandle t ... Read more
Virginia (Ginger) French Fantastic news, Jim! I suspect by the time you are feeling fully fit, you will be able to manhandle that train in the picture! In the meantime, you have certainly already gone through a marathon. Remember that taking care of YOU is so important -- we want you to be the best you can be!
Prayers continue,
Hugs,
Ginger
Edith Dim Sounds like you are doing good, Jim. Glad to hear it.
Tim Goff Sounds like great progress JIm! Winter just doesn't want to go away this year, but as always will soo ... Read more
Tim Goff Sounds like great progress JIm! Winter just doesn't want to go away this year, but as always will soon lose the battle with the sun. Stay Positive
Pat Bluemel You Inspired me to get my arse outside and walk yesterday After I read this. I've been taking our w ... Read more
Pat Bluemel You Inspired me to get my arse outside and walk yesterday After I read this. I've been taking our weather for granted and thinking of you snow and cold bound was just enough motivation. Thanks Jim.
joni moore Hello jim! I lost you for awhile, so I'm so glad to read about your journey today! our surgeries we ... Read more
joni moore Hello jim! I lost you for awhile, so I'm so glad to read about your journey today! our surgeries were 2 days apart, and you were one of my first heart friends to write and encourage me when I first joined this community ' so I've been trying to follow you.! It sounds like you had a rough time, so glad you are going home today! Home for me was wonderful, 100% better than hospital, but with it's own challenges to work out. It took me a full week to "settle down" into a peaceful being. I had no visitors except my sister, husband , and son, and keeping it small, we smoothed out the days to keep the routine simple.
I wish you a little miracle every day, and any day now (I'm thinking next week?) We will be able to walk out onto a clear path with no snow! ( I am in Reading, Pa) Have a beautiful Day Jim ! God Bless You!
Patricia Garcia Happy you sare getting around now. It won't be long till Spring comes and you can get out and about. ... Read more
Patricia Garcia Happy you sare getting around now. It won't be long till Spring comes and you can get out and about.
My stamina all of a sudden leaped to the point where I can walk a lot and even climb steps! I never thought I'd get back to this point. So the insurance denial ...Read more
My stamina all of a sudden leaped to the point where I can walk a lot and even climb steps! I never thought I'd get back to this point. So the insurance denial doesn't matter...the hospital has cleared me to go home later today! Tears of happiness I gotta tell ya.
Susan Nelson That is wonderful Jim!!! Good for you!
Pat Bluemel Jim! I just got chills reading this, seriously. Get yourself home and settled. Your adrenaline is ... Read more
Pat Bluemel Jim! I just got chills reading this, seriously. Get yourself home and settled. Your adrenaline is going to be high as soon as you get home, so please take it easy. I am so happy for you and to read this, a great Saturday indeed!
Ed Smith So glad to see this terrific news. Just remember to take it easy the first few days you're home.
Penny Prichard Great news take it easy. Don't overdo it.
Lilly Black Great news, Jim! it will get easier by the day. Take one day at a time!
Waited all day today for insurance approval to enter acute rehab only to be denied. So the next option is to enter sub acute rehab at a different facility maybe ...Read more
Waited all day today for insurance approval to enter acute rehab only to be denied. So the next option is to enter sub acute rehab at a different facility maybe as early as tomorrow. I am medically stable and feeling good just not strong enough to go home.
Janet R Dear Jim, I am so glad you are finally stable. You have certainly had a most trying time. Continue ... Read more
Janet R Dear Jim, I am so glad you are finally stable. You have certainly had a most trying time. Continued prayers to you so that you can move forward to the next step and gain your strength back.
Pat Bluemel I hope you get stronger each day Jim. Sorry for your struggles.
Susan Bach I hate insurance companies, no compassion ! They take your high premiums, but don't like to pay clai ... Read more
Susan Bach I hate insurance companies, no compassion ! They take your high premiums, but don't like to pay claims !
Cheryl Batzing Jim, I will pray as well that you could find a safe, healthy place to heal!
Robert Osmachenko Hey Jim. This has been a challenging time for you? Sometimes one has to wonder why it has to be mor ... Read more
Robert Osmachenko Hey Jim. This has been a challenging time for you? Sometimes one has to wonder why it has to be more difficult than it is. I hope you're feeling better and making progress and that there are no more surprises.
Many times I wonder if insurance companies really dictate the face of health care?
Prayers aloft for better days.
Bob M I hate insurance companies that just don't get it. I pray that the worst is behind you. One day at a ... Read more
Bob M I hate insurance companies that just don't get it. I pray that the worst is behind you. One day at a time heart brother.
My Afib spontaneously converted to normal sinus rhythm last night so I didn't need the dc cardioversion. May enter acute rehab tomorrow or Saturday. It's been ...Read more
My Afib spontaneously converted to normal sinus rhythm last night so I didn't need the dc cardioversion. May enter acute rehab tomorrow or Saturday. It's been a long, tough haul.
Curtis Jones Sorry to hear that Jim, sounds like things are starting to look up now, hang strong, brother
Duane Beeman As George Kell used to say to Al Kaline, "looks like we got us a ballgame here Al". Ernie Harwell u ... Read more
Duane Beeman As George Kell used to say to Al Kaline, "looks like we got us a ballgame here Al". Ernie Harwell used to call for some "instant runs" to end a tough game. So Jim.....time to manufacture some instant runs and chalk up the "W". Go get 'em.
Clay Rowe Great to hear you're in rhythm again Jim. The Afib can get tiring after a while. You've had a tough ... Read more
Clay Rowe Great to hear you're in rhythm again Jim. The Afib can get tiring after a while. You've had a tough run but sounds like you've turned the corner.
Virginia (Ginger) French A long tough haul, but you have made it! What a trial, but you're here to tell the tale and that's w ... Read more
Virginia (Ginger) French A long tough haul, but you have made it! What a trial, but you're here to tell the tale and that's what counts. Praying the rest of your way is smoother, but know that since you've accomplished so much, nothing will stop you now! Hugs!
Bob M The worst is behind you. One day at a time heart brother.
Linda Crawford Oh what a relief to be out of AFib 😀. Glad to hear you are looking forward. I hope each day is b ... Read more
Linda Crawford Oh what a relief to be out of AFib 😀. Glad to hear you are looking forward. I hope each day is better than the last from here on out.
Spent some time with physical therapy today. Bowels are working finally. Afib and high heart rate are issues the doctors are working on. Will be making arrangements ...Read more
Spent some time with physical therapy today. Bowels are working finally. Afib and high heart rate are issues the doctors are working on. Will be making arrangements to go to a rehab facility upon discharge. Sorry I cannot be as actively supportive of everyone here but you are all in my thoughts.
Ben Fretwell We actively support you. You focus on you, and share your success story later. Prayers!
Pat Bluemel Jim you do you. You've been nothing but supportive to so many. Let others hold you up. Just curiou ... Read more
Pat Bluemel Jim you do you. You've been nothing but supportive to so many. Let others hold you up. Just curious how high is the heart rate? Hope they get the Afib under control today.
Tim Goff So happy to hear some better news and progress. Wishing you continued positive steps
Nancy D Sounds like progress is happening although slower than you would like. Celebrate each tiny baby step ... Read more
Nancy D Sounds like progress is happening although slower than you would like. Celebrate each tiny baby step as these add up quicker than the big leaps. PT- check, bowels moving - check, drs working on A-fib- check. These things are worth more than a high five!! I just know the folks in rehab will have you stronger and moving better each day...hang in there, we are here in the background cheering you on and praying for you!!! Take good care!!!
Virginia (Ginger) French Jim, It is such a pleasure to pray for you! Your day will come when you have recovered and your heal ... Read more
Virginia (Ginger) French Jim, It is such a pleasure to pray for you! Your day will come when you have recovered and your health is good. Right now you need to use all the energy you have to heal. Someday in the not-too-far future you will be posting and helping others!
Jim, know, too, that your tremendous efforts to get through all these trials and get well are an inspiration to the rest of us!
Well,.tubes are out and I am medically stable, I think. The Afib that I developed when they took me off Amiodarone due to liver concerns continues to rock the ...Read more
Well,.tubes are out and I am medically stable, I think. The Afib that I developed when they took me off Amiodarone due to liver concerns continues to rock the boat and is very noticeable. I have zero strength and get winded at any activity. I met with physical therapy today and they are recommending discharge to a rehab facility. I know I can't go home in my current state if extreme weakness. Thanks everyone for the continued love and support. I am glad this thing is not ad bad for most of you as it has been for me.
Jim Phillips Jim you should start getting more strength every day - just keep your eyes on the prize (recovery)! ... Read more
Jim Phillips Jim you should start getting more strength every day - just keep your eyes on the prize (recovery)! You are through the worst part. Will continue to pray for you.
Tim Goff Jim, sorry to hear that your journey has been so tough, but glad they are talking about discharge as ... Read more
Tim Goff Jim, sorry to hear that your journey has been so tough, but glad they are talking about discharge as that should be a relief to you. Wishing you continued progress and better days ahead.
Kimberly Biddick Wishing you continued progress, day by day. Thank you for being so diligent in keeping us all update ... Read more
Kimberly Biddick Wishing you continued progress, day by day. Thank you for being so diligent in keeping us all updated... we're all praying for you!
Terrie Syvertsen Jim. Glad that the tubes are out-Very positive change, yes?! Sorry it has been bumpy for you and will ... Read more
Terrie Syvertsen Jim. Glad that the tubes are out-Very positive change, yes?! Sorry it has been bumpy for you and will send out more prayers that your Afib will
choose to settle down shortly(I had minor afib and SVT right after getting home and was able to get treated in the ER and sent home with meds for one which in turn helped the other. Hopefully it will subside to when if and when you go to a rehab facility you can have time to build up your strength and step into a good progressive climb with your healing process.
After all...Your Hill is out there waiting for you. Love and gentle hugs to both you and Dan. Remember it is one day at a time at this point of recovering!
Lewis Garlisi You had a tough time and you've put the worst behind you. Concentrate on staying nourished and gett ... Read more
Lewis Garlisi You had a tough time and you've put the worst behind you. Concentrate on staying nourished and getting stronger every day now. We're all pulling for you.
Lisa Repp I'm sorry that you have had such a rough time of it, but it looks like you've turned the corner, and ... Read more
Lisa Repp I'm sorry that you have had such a rough time of it, but it looks like you've turned the corner, and I hope all of this unpleasantness is now in your rear view mirror.
Bob M The worst is behind you now. I pray that the rest of your recovery will be uneventful. Take it easy h ... Read more
Bob M The worst is behind you now. I pray that the rest of your recovery will be uneventful. Take it easy heart brother.
Robert Osmachenko Hey Jim. I hear your words and feel this is going to be a more difficult process for you than others ... Read more
Robert Osmachenko Hey Jim. I hear your words and feel this is going to be a more difficult process for you than others. I pray for your quick release from hospital in order that you may help yourself and be surrounded by loved ones. Prayers aloft for you and Dan.
Greg Milis You will be the final winner, Jim . every difficulty is for good, my dear friend said all the time. ... Read more
Greg Milis You will be the final winner, Jim . every difficulty is for good, my dear friend said all the time.
Thanks everyone for all of the support. My numbers are improving. Two chest tubes were removed this morning...two remain. My swan neck arterial line from Fridays ...Read more
Thanks everyone for all of the support. My numbers are improving. Two chest tubes were removed this morning...two remain. My swan neck arterial line from Fridays second surgery is supposed to be removed today also. No appetite and taking meds to get my bowels to move. But slow progress is being made I think. Patience is necessary. Love and hugs to my heart sisters and brothers.
Jim
Janet R Jim, So happy to hear of your progress. Please be patient and take one day at a time. Little victo ... Read more
Janet R Jim, So happy to hear of your progress. Please be patient and take one day at a time. Little victories every day. Be Well.
Mary Myers Awesome news!!! Each day will get better. Healthy hugs to you!
Mia (mary)♡♡♡♡
Pat Bluemel Good News! The tubes and lines come out one by one and you feel better and better after each. Keep a ... Read more
Pat Bluemel Good News! The tubes and lines come out one by one and you feel better and better after each. Keep at it Jim, you'll be up and around in no time.
Duane Beeman Jim: This went from a 12 rounder to a 15 rounder. Time to head for the locker room, shower up and g ... Read more
Duane Beeman Jim: This went from a 12 rounder to a 15 rounder. Time to head for the locker room, shower up and get ready for the post fight interview. Hang in there pal. By the way, I've always found that a warm Budweiser followed with a sip of freshly brewed coffee will get those bowels cleared right up.
Tim Goff Great to hear of your progress Jim, we were all thinking of you. Hope you didn't pop a stitch after r ... Read more
Tim Goff Great to hear of your progress Jim, we were all thinking of you. Hope you didn't pop a stitch after reading Duane's comments. too funny
Terrie Syvertsen Jim-Day by Day is a good way to progress after what you have been experiencing so continue on with th ... Read more
Terrie Syvertsen Jim-Day by Day is a good way to progress after what you have been experiencing so continue on with the healing but I think I would pass(LITERALLY!) on Duane's
warm Budweiser and freshly brewed coffee! Take care Heart Brother...
Duane Beeman Well if you DO try my recipe Jim, I would suggest that you make your way to the bathroom BEFORE you s ... Read more
Duane Beeman Well if you DO try my recipe Jim, I would suggest that you make your way to the bathroom BEFORE you swallow the coffee. It's a real finisher.
Jim O'Brien Great news to hear you are moving forward with recovery. Best wishes and prayers for recovery.
Cheryl Batzing Jim, so glad to hear of your continued healing. Will keep you in my prayers that you can break out of ... Read more
Cheryl Batzing Jim, so glad to hear of your continued healing. Will keep you in my prayers that you can break out of the hospital soon and recover at home!
Bob M 2 tubes out and 2 to go. God bless and rise up! Getting there heart brother. One day at a time.
Still in ICU day 7...trying to get heart function improved...outlook trying to keep positive...at least one more day then maybe I can try to sit again...thanks ...Read more
Still in ICU day 7...trying to get heart function improved...outlook trying to keep positive...at least one more day then maybe I can try to sit again...thanks for keeping me in your thoughts
Don LaPorte Hi Jim, thanks for the update and thoughts and prayers with you. You have been such great support t ... Read more
Don LaPorte Hi Jim, thanks for the update and thoughts and prayers with you. You have been such great support to all in our community here Jim, thanks for being so generous with your time and support.
Tammy Pilcher More prayers for you, Jim! Hang in there!
Terrie Syvertsen Thanks Jim for the update. Hope and Pray that you continue to improve day by day. It is important to ... Read more
Terrie Syvertsen Thanks Jim for the update. Hope and Pray that you continue to improve day by day. It is important to think positive and be patient with your body as it tries to deal with the aggravation it has endured. It is in your favor that you have taken so good care of yourself and been so active as that will help you gain your strength back a little at a time. We are all thinking of you. Say hello to Dan for us as well and tell him to stay strong too!
Tim Goff Thinking of you each day Jim and wishing you steady pain free progress. Thanks for the update and kee ... Read more
Tim Goff Thinking of you each day Jim and wishing you steady pain free progress. Thanks for the update and keep positive--- you will do it.
Nancy D It is a marathon, not a sprint, but you will get stronger and your heart will settle in and then you ... Read more
Nancy D It is a marathon, not a sprint, but you will get stronger and your heart will settle in and then you will feel better and better.....deep breaths and know we are thinking of you and praying for you!!
Janet R Continued prayers and thoughts for you Jim for healing and strength and recovery.
Jim Phillips Positive thoughts and prayers for you Jim. You can do this
Clay Rowe Jim, hate to hear you're having a rough time right now. Know that you have lots of prayers and suppo ... Read more
Clay Rowe Jim, hate to hear you're having a rough time right now. Know that you have lots of prayers and support for things to ease up so you can recover.
Penny Prichard Hope you have turned the corner and are finally on the mend. Positive thoughts going your way
Pat Bluemel I hope the last few hours have brought on some good progress. Get some rest Jim!
Bob M One day at a time. I pray that the rest of your recovery will be uneventful. God bless and rise up!
Still in the ICU since Monday. Had a second full steroenotomy Friday to relieve fluid backup behind heart Original surgery was 7 hours valve, root, ascending ...Read more
Still in the ICU since Monday. Had a second full steroenotomy Friday to relieve fluid backup behind heart Original surgery was 7 hours valve, root, ascending and two cabg...been a tough week...hope I have turned the corner
Rob Wigley Rough time for you, Jim. Hope things get better soon.
Jim Phillips So glad to hear you have turned the corner..! All recovery from here out.
So sorry that you have had such a rough week. I hope you are on the recovery road now. I'll keep yo ... Read more
So sorry that you have had such a rough week. I hope you are on the recovery road now. I'll keep you in my prayers.
Tammi Gunwall I'm sorry to hear Jim!!! Praying things start to turn around for you and your recovery/healing proces ... Read more
Tammi Gunwall I'm sorry to hear Jim!!! Praying things start to turn around for you and your recovery/healing process is much less eventful. Stay strong and positive if you can!
Janice Smith Know this is rough on you and your family, but in time it will get better. Thinking of you.
Lilly Black Jim, hang in there....it will be over before you know it, and you will be back in your own bed. :o)
Penny Prichard Hang in there, this will all be behind you soon and you will be dancing a jig on St Pattys day
Lisa Repp We're all rooting for you, and I am praying for your recovery.
Mark Alafita Jim, I am sad to hear of this. Keep your spirits up and let the healing begin!
Virginia (Ginger) French Jim, Glad you are posting so we can be praying for you. You have unquestionably had a rocky course! ... Read more
Virginia (Ginger) French Jim, Glad you are posting so we can be praying for you. You have unquestionably had a rocky course! We will pray that the problems are behind you and your progress from here on out will be steady and swift.
Hang in there!
You will look back in six months and be glad you did this, because your long term prognosis for life will improve dramatically as a result of the surgery.
Eleanor R I hope this finds you feeling better, a tough few days for sure. Now on to recovery, walking and doi ... Read more
Eleanor R I hope this finds you feeling better, a tough few days for sure. Now on to recovery, walking and doing the breathing exercise. I know you will be glad to be home. Wishing you the best. Eleanor
Wiliam Height Slow everything down to this moment and put that week behind you, rest up and take a slow recovery.
Lewis Garlisi Good to see your post Jim. Hope you have turned a corner too. Be positive and patient. We're prayin ... Read more
Lewis Garlisi Good to see your post Jim. Hope you have turned a corner too. Be positive and patient. We're praying for you.
Mary Myers Jim, our heart family will continue to remember you in our prayers. You will be home soon, and you ... Read more
Mary Myers Jim, our heart family will continue to remember you in our prayers. You will be home soon, and you will heal fast. Keep positive, rest and relax as much as possible. Hugs from Mia in Michigan.
Pat Bluemel Only good thoughts Jim. Here's to the fast track of healing.
Tammy Pilcher Jim, we're continuing to keep you in prayer. So sorry to hear you had complications. Best wishes fo ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher Jim, we're continuing to keep you in prayer. So sorry to hear you had complications. Best wishes for the rest of recovery!
Tim Goff I have beenbthinking of you all week Jim. Sorry to hear of the challenges but hope you are now in the ... Read more
Tim Goff I have beenbthinking of you all week Jim. Sorry to hear of the challenges but hope you are now in the clear. We are pulling for you
Bob M I pray that the worst is behind you. I pray that the rest of your recovery will be uneventful.
This is Dan, reporting for Jim Kelly-Evans. He had his surgery today, correcting the valve, the aorta, aortic arch and two arterial bypass procedures. He is ...Read more
This is Dan, reporting for Jim Kelly-Evans. He had his surgery today, correcting the valve, the aorta, aortic arch and two arterial bypass procedures. He is in recovery at the ICU now and appreciates your concern
Terrie Syvertsen Thanks for the update on Jim, Dan. Love and Prayers go out to you both.
One day closer to climbing hi ... Read more
Terrie Syvertsen Thanks for the update on Jim, Dan. Love and Prayers go out to you both.
One day closer to climbing his "HILL"!
Susan Nelson Great to hear. You are in my thoughts & prayers.
Peter Duplin Lots of prayers and love Jim .dan thanks for keeping us up to speed . Mend fast Lim
Edith Dim So glad to hear that all went well for Jim. I wish him a smooth road to recovery.
Tim Goff Excellent to hear that he is on the other side and his recovery can begin!
joni moore Execellant news Dan- today is day one of recovery! Let all these positive thoughts and prayers lift ... Read more
joni moore Execellant news Dan- today is day one of recovery! Let all these positive thoughts and prayers lift him up for that first walk! Baby steps Jim!
Brad Swanson Sending my best wishes to Jim and you Dan.
Judi Nunez Great news Jim...prayers for a quick recovery..
Lilly Black All the best to Jim for a quick recovery!
Well, it's time. My surgery is tomorrow. It's been a long time coming. People often ask me "how do you feel?" Or they ask "how are you handling this?" Or, "how ...Read more
Well, it's time. My surgery is tomorrow. It's been a long time coming. People often ask me "how do you feel?" Or they ask "how are you handling this?" Or, "how do you keep your spirits up, stay positive?" I usually respond that I feel fine and that having a wonderful husband, pets and a great life keeps me positive.
Dan points out that this whole thing, finally getting to the point of needing surgery, hasn't happened the way we thought it would. We figured I'd get progressively weaker and symptomatic, and that one day I would collapse like a friend did when his aortic valve went bad. But that didn't happen in my case. I think of my experience as more than a little surreal. This is because, with the exception of my serious episode last December 9 and a few lesser episodes over the moths and years, I usually feel just fine with minimal symptoms. I can still lift heavy things, walk five to six miles a day, and in short, do just about everything I want. I get a little winded once in a while climbing steps, but other than that I feel perfectly normal. So yes, it feels like I'm in some sort of surreal dream wherein I'm fine, a dream that that never ends... but I have to get this heavy duty operation anyway, that will rob me, (hopefully only temporarily,) of the strength and conditioning that I've worked so hard to maintain into my senior years.
There's a hill that I climb every day on my morning walk on my way back to the house. I've always said to myself that the day I can't climb this hill will be the day that I need to have surgery. But that's not the way it worked out. I can still climb the hill today but I won't be able to do it for a while after surgery. So now I say to myself, the day that I'm able to once again climb that hill...that will be the day when I'll feel recovered.
Tammy Pilcher You'll be climbing that hill in no time, Jim! God bless you!
Mary Myers You will be climbing that hill in mo time. All will go well. Keep your positive thinking and your fai ... Read more
Mary Myers You will be climbing that hill in mo time. All will go well. Keep your positive thinking and your faith. I am 58 had my mitral surgery on July29th. It was a good choice to not wait any longer. I had my surgery done by a cardiac surgeon locally. A well known hospital in Michigan. My surgeon was awesome. I was able to have a non invasive procedure. My good news is I feel better than ever, and I am back at the gym. Best of luck. Sending prayers your way. Hugs from my healthy piggy valve to your heart.
Mary (Mia)
kidsjunction@gmail.com
Bob M I pray that your hill will be behind you after your strength recovers. Until then, I pray that you ta ... Read more
Bob M I pray that your hill will be behind you after your strength recovers. Until then, I pray that you take it easy and don't rush your new fixed heart. I pushed myself too much last Friday during cardiac rehab, my blood pressure dropped to 80 over 60, and I had to stopped myself on the stationary bike after completing the pulleys and treadmill, and I had to lie down until my blood pressure went back to normal. Take it easy to me, you Jim and the rest of our Community. We have new fixed hearts and it takes time to heal.
Mark Alafita I'm glad that you did not hit some sort of wall before getting surgery. Active until the actual even ... Read more
Mark Alafita I'm glad that you did not hit some sort of wall before getting surgery. Active until the actual event, sounds very healthy. I hope you notice a difference after recovering, that the hill is easier. Either way, I know you will feel better.
Duane Beeman Jim. If I can't get out there to PA to pull you up that hill, we could always call a taxi to help yo ... Read more
Duane Beeman Jim. If I can't get out there to PA to pull you up that hill, we could always call a taxi to help you out on those first couple of attempts.
joni moore That hill sounds like a great motivator for you, jim! I am sure that day will come! just know that G ... Read more
joni moore That hill sounds like a great motivator for you, jim! I am sure that day will come! just know that God will be holding your hand all the way through, and we will all be cheering for you when we hear from you on tuesday!
Tammi Gunwall You are so prepared. No doubt, you will do great tomorrow, Jim! Our thoughts and prayers are with you ... Read more
Tammi Gunwall You are so prepared. No doubt, you will do great tomorrow, Jim! Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I'm looking forward to hearing all the details of your journey when you are on the other side of this and healing well. God bless, Jim!
Tammi Gunwall Oh, and the hill...you will be practically running up and down it before you know it!! :)
Lisa Repp You have a great attitude, and that is half the battle right there. My prayers are with you, and I l ... Read more
Lisa Repp You have a great attitude, and that is half the battle right there. My prayers are with you, and I look forward to your posts after the surgery to let us know how you are doing.
Clay Rowe Lots of support for you today and through your recovery Jim. You'll fight the fight and get yourself ... Read more
Clay Rowe Lots of support for you today and through your recovery Jim. You'll fight the fight and get yourself back together soon.
Tim Goff Excellent post Jim and an experience that mirrors not only mine, but likely many others. Looking forw ... Read more
Tim Goff Excellent post Jim and an experience that mirrors not only mine, but likely many others. Looking forward to hearing of your recovery later today
Susan Bach I know exactly how you feel. I don't have symptoms either. But the Echo does not lie , and you don' ... Read more
Susan Bach I know exactly how you feel. I don't have symptoms either. But the Echo does not lie , and you don't want to wait for symptoms, I understand they are tough. good luck Jim. Keep us informed.
Terrie Syvertsen Jim...."Climb every Mountain, ford every stream, follow every rainbow
'till you find your dream!!!!!! ... Read more
Terrie Syvertsen Jim...."Climb every Mountain, ford every stream, follow every rainbow
'till you find your dream!!!!!!!!!!! Sorry, doesn't take much to get me to either break into some kind of show tunes or song when I get emotional! You will be climbing that Hill again sooner than you think as you have already made that part of your routine of things you enjoy. Your body will build itself back into the strength it took to enjoy that climb with Dan there to cheer you on! We will be thinking of you and sending Universal good thoughts and prayers day and night until your return home!
I am in a great place (mentally) all set for Monday...no worries, bring it on. I have a busy weekend with a social event Friday evening, and Saturday and Sunday ...Read more
I am in a great place (mentally) all set for Monday...no worries, bring it on. I have a busy weekend with a social event Friday evening, and Saturday and Sunday performances to attend. And I can drink my sake until Saturday evening, how great is that? Finally, my weight...194.2 down 2.0 since last week and I made my target weight for surgery of 195.0. I have asked my husband Dan to update everybody here and to take many photos on Monday and Tuesday and to bring me my laptop as soon as I am out of the ICU. But who knows what condition I'll be in or whether I'll want to deal with it. We'll see. It's been quite a ride these past 11 years since my diagnosis. But like Sondhiem wrote ....I'm still here.
Mark Alafita Jim, I'm keeping you and Dan in my thoughts for Monday. It surely sounds like you have the right eve ... Read more
Mark Alafita Jim, I'm keeping you and Dan in my thoughts for Monday. It surely sounds like you have the right everything: attitude, weight, planning, perspective, etc. Best of luck, and I look forward to the updates post-op!
Judi Nunez Good luck Jim. I'm right behind you on the 19th. Prayers are with you
Jim Kelly-Evans Thanks Mark! I appreciate the support. Judi..we will do great ...you and I next week...it will be a g ... Read more
Jim Kelly-Evans Thanks Mark! I appreciate the support. Judi..we will do great ...you and I next week...it will be a good week for us
Patricia Garcia Jim great attitude and keep those positves thoughts. You are almost on the other side of this surger ... Read more
Patricia Garcia Jim great attitude and keep those positves thoughts. You are almost on the other side of this surgery and recovery is right around the corner. Prayers for you to have a smooth surgery on Monday.
Jim Gleason All right Jim. Had my valve replaced on 1/21/15. Feeling great some pectoral chest nerve pain from th ... Read more
Jim Gleason All right Jim. Had my valve replaced on 1/21/15. Feeling great some pectoral chest nerve pain from the clamps they use but feel great with 90% more energy. Pre-op the pain was my biggest concern. No problem really
.
Conrad Henselder Jim, wishing you all good thoughts and as much support from afar as possible. You do sound like you ... Read more
Conrad Henselder Jim, wishing you all good thoughts and as much support from afar as possible. You do sound like you are in a great mental place. You are a good example to all of us. Wishing you the best.
Adam Pick You got this Jim. Enjoy the weekend. Enjoy the Sake. Have one for me. Fyi, I'm a huge sushi fan. Next ... Read more
Adam Pick You got this Jim. Enjoy the weekend. Enjoy the Sake. Have one for me. Fyi, I'm a huge sushi fan. Next time you're in Los Angeles with your fixed ticker, let me know. I'd love to have dinner with you. I am looking forward to sharing your success story with the world!!!
Linda Crawford May you have only good results and a speedy recovery.
Kimberly Biddick Enjoy your weekend and by this time next week, you will have it all finally behind you! Woo hoo!!
Clay Rowe Jim, glad you have a fun weekend planned and know we're all supporting you for Monday. You'll be bac ... Read more
Clay Rowe Jim, glad you have a fun weekend planned and know we're all supporting you for Monday. You'll be back at the sushi bar sooner than you think.
Eleanor R Best wishes to you Jim. Enjoy this (cold) weekend with warm events and folks, and good luck on a smo ... Read more
Eleanor R Best wishes to you Jim. Enjoy this (cold) weekend with warm events and folks, and good luck on a smooth surgery and speedy recovery, I am wishing you the best. Eleanor.
Ole Bore Wish you the best of luck, although you won't need it. Being as prepared as you and your doctors are ... Read more
Ole Bore Wish you the best of luck, although you won't need it. Being as prepared as you and your doctors are you will do great.
Lewis Garlisi Good attitude, Jim. Enjoy your weekend. Concentrate on your recovery after ICU. We will hear from ... Read more
Lewis Garlisi Good attitude, Jim. Enjoy your weekend. Concentrate on your recovery after ICU. We will hear from you eventually. Best wishes.
Jim Kelly-Evans Thanks everyone for all the words of encouragement. I got my final call from the hospital to report f ... Read more
Jim Kelly-Evans Thanks everyone for all the words of encouragement. I got my final call from the hospital to report for surgery at 5:45 AM Monday morning, so I'm all set. I'll be back ...from the other side :)
Patricia Garcia Great Jim...early in and early out to a smooth recovery. Enjoy your weekend and Happy Valentine's Da ... Read more
Patricia Garcia Great Jim...early in and early out to a smooth recovery. Enjoy your weekend and Happy Valentine's Day. Look forward to hearing from you when you are back and feeling well.
joni moore Happy Valentines Day Jim and Dan! I am so happy Monday is your day!
You are in good hands, your surgi ... Read more
joni moore Happy Valentines Day Jim and Dan! I am so happy Monday is your day!
You are in good hands, your surgical team all around you , and God holding your right hand , always....!!!
Today was pretty intense. First I met with my surgeon's right hand man, a nurse-practitioner named Bill. Bill has been very helpful since I first met with him. ...Read more
Today was pretty intense. First I met with my surgeon's right hand man, a nurse-practitioner named Bill. Bill has been very helpful since I first met with him. Today he answered the follow-up questions that I had such as about the total number of incisions I would wake up with post surgery (7 or 8 including three or four drainage tubes, two regular IVs, an arterial IV, and a neck incision for a cardiac catheter!), what medications I would be on, probably at least six including a water pill, something for my bowels, a pain killer, a beta blocker for blood pressure medication, aspirin, and coumadin. I also asked Bill about the relative complexity of my procedure. On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being highly complex, my procedure a "Button Bentall" is an 8 or a 9. That's why you go to a major university center like Temple or Penn, a heart center of excellence, to get this type of surgery. Bill also explained the timings that my husband Dan can expect for my procedure. The operation will last between six and eight hours including prep time and post surgery housekeeping before I will be transferred to the ICU. If my procedure starts as scheduled early Monday, Dan can expect to get a report from my surgeon Dr. Wheatley sometime between about 1 PM and 3 PM. Bill also commented on the general anesthesia used. Two different agents are administered. One knocks you out and the other paralyzes you.
After meeting with Bill I met with my surgeon Dr. Wheatley. By this point in the process most of my questions had already been answered. I did disucss the possibility that I might require a permanent pacemaker post surgery. Dr. Wheatley told me that there is only about a 10 percent chance of that. Since I blog about BAV disease and aneurysms and my own situation, I might want to write further about it at some point. In this connection i asked Dr. Wheatly if he planned to take photos of my procedure. He indicated that he did not do this routinely but he would try to make some media available for me.
After meeting with Dr.l Wheatley it was time for pre-admission testing. This included an examination by a nurse-practitioner, blood work, and chest X-rays. I got anti-bacterial body wipes that I must use the night before my surgery and also on the morning of the surgery. I also asked if I could see the cardiac intensive care facility and the step down unit, but apparently Temple Hospital does not allow casual visitors to these facilities.
Finally, Dr. Wheatley asked me if I would be interested in participating in an evaluation of an alternative sternal closure device, "Sternal Lok Blu," which are metal plates screwed to the sternum instead of wires. Dr. Wheatley feels that this method is superior to the wires. I agreed but since it is a study only half of the participants will receive the rigid sternal fixation devices and the other half will get the usual closure with wires. I'm hoping to be one of the lucky recipients of the Sternal Lok Blu closures. I won't know until after the study ends, though, in about a year.
So now I have only four days before surgery happens. The train has left the station and I'm on board. There's no getting off now.
Nancy D Sounds like a very informative series of appointments which I hope resolve any last questions or unce ... Read more
Nancy D Sounds like a very informative series of appointments which I hope resolve any last questions or uncertainties. Here's to a positive, and calm four days feeling confident and peace filled!! Take good care!
Cheryl Batzing Jim, sounds like you asked great questions and got great information. Also sounds "right" as to what ... Read more
Cheryl Batzing Jim, sounds like you asked great questions and got great information. Also sounds "right" as to what I experienced after mitral valve repair with all the incisions, IVs, etc. Praying for you and your upcoming surgery for success and quick healing.
Bob M Looks like you are prepared for Monday. I pray your surgery and recovery will be peaceful.
Lenore Mitchell Stay on the train, Jim, and know that you'll do fine. Soon you'll be in recovery mode.
Don't miss the latest essay by my surgeon Dr. Gray Wheatley focusing on the aortic arch!
February 7, 2015
Medical Arc de Triomphe (or Why your Aortic arch ...Read more
Don't miss the latest essay by my surgeon Dr. Gray Wheatley focusing on the aortic arch!
February 7, 2015
Medical Arc de Triomphe (or Why your Aortic arch is unique)
http://badaorta.com/
The Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile in Paris was completed in 1808, and stands as both an architectural monument as well as a source of French national pride.
Check out the latest information on aortic disease from Temple University thoracic surgeon Dr. Grayson Wheatley.
What you don't know about Aortic Disease ...Read more
Check out the latest information on aortic disease from Temple University thoracic surgeon Dr. Grayson Wheatley.
What you don't know about Aortic Disease
http://us10.campaign-archive1.com/?u=bfe4ea74c32415767992c51ae&id=9c4829b040
My surgeon. Dr. Wheatley, sure is busy on the presentations circuit. It's nice to have such an expert in your corner.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/01/150126124947.htm ...Read more
My surgeon. Dr. Wheatley, sure is busy on the presentations circuit. It's nice to have such an expert in your corner.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/01/150126124947.htm
Cardiothoracic surgeons have long played a central role in caring for patients with aortic dissection, a life-threatening condition that in the past was treated only with open surgery or medicines. But according to a new study, thanks to new minimally invasive endovascular procedures, other specialists are becoming increasingly involved in the management of patients with aortic dissection.
I had a valuable exchange of emails with my surgeon, Dr. Wheatley in regard to the choice of valve prosthesis for my aortic valve replacement. Dr. Wheatley ...Read more
I had a valuable exchange of emails with my surgeon, Dr. Wheatley in regard to the choice of valve prosthesis for my aortic valve replacement. Dr. Wheatley is confident that, if I were to need another replacement in the future, it will be possible to to have it done via the new trans-catheter (TAVR) method. So, while it remains a gamble on the future against the possibility of having to undergo another open heart procedure, this seems to be a reasonable course for me to follow. The other option, selecting a mechanical valve combined with the need for lifelong anti-coagulation therapy, has faded as a viable option in my mind. With about two and a half weeks until my surgery date, I am becoming sanguine about my situation.
Duane Beeman "Sanguine"..... Now there is a GREAT word and a perfect description of how to best posture yourself m ... Read more
Duane Beeman "Sanguine"..... Now there is a GREAT word and a perfect description of how to best posture yourself mentally for the upcoming procedure.
Bob M Along with you and me and many others, we are betting on TAVR for our next round.
Ben Kois Jim, I just had that very same conversation with my surgeon. We originally had decided to go with a b ... Read more
Ben Kois Jim, I just had that very same conversation with my surgeon. We originally had decided to go with a bovine tissue valve. Mechanical valve was never a viable option because of the life-long coagulation therapy needed. At my final consultation and after some new 'numbers' he recommended a porcine valve. It is larger and offers more tissue around the valve opening. With the est life expectancy of 10-20 yrs (10 being at the very low end of the spectrum) I will eventually need another replacement. With the extra tissue around the valve he was fairly confident that my next procedure could be done via heart catheter.
Wow! My surgeon (2/16), Dr. Wheatley of Temple University in Phialdelphia, has just posted another in a series of really informative explanations of valve and ...Read more
Wow! My surgeon (2/16), Dr. Wheatley of Temple University in Phialdelphia, has just posted another in a series of really informative explanations of valve and aorta disease...this time he is focusing on coarctation.
http://badaorta.com/
Aortic coarctation is a congenital disorder of the aorta, affects 5% to 8% of all patients with congenital heart disease and is the 7th most common congenital heart disease. During embryologic development, the aorta develops from several primordial structures which coalesce into what we think of as a “normal” aorta. However, sometimes that development process goes awry, resulting in a “kink” or narrowing (stenosis) in the aorta just beyond the left subclavian artery.
Kimberly Biddick Jim - thank you for your very informative posts from your surgeon. I appreciate that you take the ti ... Read more
Kimberly Biddick Jim - thank you for your very informative posts from your surgeon. I appreciate that you take the time to post them and they have all helped me tremendously. You are without a doubt in excellent hands!!
Peter Duplin Great stuff Jim thanks for posting and thank to the surgeon
Eleanor R Thank you Jim for posting your surgeon's articles, it helps educate us all. I am glad you found him ... Read more
Eleanor R Thank you Jim for posting your surgeon's articles, it helps educate us all. I am glad you found him, he seems a good fit to you and you can appreciate his knowledge of the subject before he ever touches you. Best wishes on your own surgery, I feel you are in the best hands. Eleanor
I posed a question to my cardiac care team at Temple University Hospital asking why it will be necessary to replace my entire aortic root and ascending aorta. ...Read more
I posed a question to my cardiac care team at Temple University Hospital asking why it will be necessary to replace my entire aortic root and ascending aorta. My cardiologist, Dr. Martin Keane responded with this comprehensive explanation:
You have a bicuspid aortic valve (“congenital anomaly” - most common one - present in about 2% of human population). It turns out that not only does having a bicuspid aortic valve result in early valve disease (stenosis, regurgitation or both), but it is also associated with an abnormal weakness of the most proximal portions of the aortic “root” and ascending aorta. It’s known as “bicuspid aortopathy”. It is a form of annuloaortic ectasia, and any dilatation of the proximal aorta is usually associated with sinotubular effacement (that’s just a descriptor, not a pathology). After much population-based research, it has been determined that an aortic root or proximal ascending aortic diameter of ≥4.5 cm portends elevated risk of further dilatation and aneurysm formation over the long term. Thus, it is recommended that in bicuspid aortic valve patients whose aortas are larger than that, the proximal aortic root be replaced as well. It’s more of a gray zone below 4.5, but I’ve cared for patients who’d had smaller aortas at the time of bicuspid aortic valve replacement, and then a few years later, needed to go BACK to the OR for replacement of an ascending aortic aneurysm. That is clearly a sub-optimal situation. With you proximal ascending aortic measurement of 4.6 on your recent CTA, it is most prudent to replace both the valve, root and proximal-most portion of the ascending aorta."
Jim Kelly-Evans What he is saying is that my cat scan shows a dilated ascending aorta at 46mm, and my aortic root, wh ... Read more
Jim Kelly-Evans What he is saying is that my cat scan shows a dilated ascending aorta at 46mm, and my aortic root, where the aorta meets the heart, is also dilated. So the surgical plan is to replace my diseased aortic valve attached to a dacron graft to replace my aorta starting at the heart all the way up to the beginning of the aortic arch. The procedure is known as the Bentall Procedure. The coronary arteries are detached from the diseased aorta and re-attached to the dacron graft. When they remove the coronary arteries from the aorta they leave a ring of aortic tissue around the opening of the coronary artery. This "button" makes it easier for the surgeon to sew the coronary arteries into the graft. The procedure is called a "Button Bentall." Hope this helps.
Ruth Valenzuela HOLY MOLY! So far I've only been told I have BAV stenosis and regurgitation. I pray once I have sur ... Read more
Ruth Valenzuela HOLY MOLY! So far I've only been told I have BAV stenosis and regurgitation. I pray once I have surgery for these problems, that later down the line I don't have to have another surgery for a replacement of an ascending aortic aneurysm. Does the echo reveal this abnormality or do other test come into play? Yikes....
Jim Kelly-Evans Ruth, yes, your TTE (trans-thoracic echocardiogram) should include an evaluation of your ascending ao ... Read more
Jim Kelly-Evans Ruth, yes, your TTE (trans-thoracic echocardiogram) should include an evaluation of your ascending aorta. The normal dimension is around 2.5 cm. Anyone with BAV should have their ascending aorta evaluated regularly. If you have your echo report you can check and see what the dimension is. Sometimes they can't see the aortic arch very well. but usually they report on the ascending aorta where many people with BAV have problems. Unfortunately, many of us with BAV also have aortic aneurysms.
Ruth Valenzuela I've never had a TEE so not sure my regular echocardiogram will show these measurements but once I ge ... Read more
Ruth Valenzuela I've never had a TEE so not sure my regular echocardiogram will show these measurements but once I get home, I'm going to look. This is something my cardiologist has never mentioned and I do have a BAV. Again, thanks.
Daniel Spurgeon It was a regular trans thoracic echo that found my dilated aortic root.
Ruth Valenzuela Looking at my echo results. In 2012 my aortic root was 3.20; in 2013 it was 2.40 and 2014 it was 3.6 ... Read more
Ruth Valenzuela Looking at my echo results. In 2012 my aortic root was 3.20; in 2013 it was 2.40 and 2014 it was 3.60. I didn't get a copy of my last echo so don't know what it read but assuming close to 2014. It sort of puzzles me that it went from 3.20 to 2.40? My cardiologists never mentions my root dimensions...
Edith Dim Ruth...I did have echocardiograms once a year for a few years, then another in six months later. It ... Read more
Edith Dim Ruth...I did have echocardiograms once a year for a few years, then another in six months later. It was after the last one this past October that my cardiologist sent me for a TEE, which disclosed that I have severe aortic stenosis, and need to have open heart surgery to replace it. He thought that the TEE was important.
My surgeon (Feb. 16), Dr. Grayson Wheatley at Temple University in Philadelphia is publishing a series of commentaries on aorta pathologies. His web site is ...Read more
My surgeon (Feb. 16), Dr. Grayson Wheatley at Temple University in Philadelphia is publishing a series of commentaries on aorta pathologies. His web site is here:
http://www.badaorta.com
Continuing on with the theme of acute Aortic dissections, let’s discuss in more detail the ramifications and consequences of blood simultaneously flowing in two separate, parallel channels within the Aorta. The double barrel appearance (in cross section) of the aorta means that the physiologic pressure of the of a single channel of flowing blood in the normal Aorta becomes divided. In fact, there becomes a pressure differential between the two channels. One channel, the true lumen, is compressed by the increased pressure in the false lumen. The false lumen is the space created by the tearing apart of the layers of the wall of the aorta. As a consequence, blood flow to the side branches of the Aorta can be affected.
Daniel Spurgeon Thanks for the link, I will do some reading.