Lois's Journal

Steve Farthing  When in doubt, another opinion is often a good idea. You could also ask for a referral to someone who can remove it including the wires.

Catie B  Gosh, I'm sorry you've got this pain from your sternotomy. If you don't feel heard by your surgeon, it sounds reasonable to talk to someone else. Hope you can have a good resolution to this!

Bob Jensen  What does your cardiologist say about this? I can't believe that your surgeon doesn't care - strange. Maybe go the head surgeon of the hospital and register a complaint. If no resolution - you can always get a lawyer involved, but be careful. If you go in that direction - your current surgeon will be off the plate regarding your care moving forward.

Emily Rowley  There was someone I went to Rehab with the same style sternal closure and it hurt them too. Aww I am so sorry to hear your Surgeon doesn't care, that is terrible 😫 Could you talk with your Cardiologist about this? I hope you find some relief. Please keep us update 🙏🏼

Lois Harvey  Thank you and Emily thanks for telling me someone else has had this closure system. I am trying to get another cardiac surgeon to look at it but they are so afraid of stepping on the other guys toes.

Adam Pick  https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/heart-surgery-blog/2009/09/30/problems-sleeping-after-heart-surgery/

Lois Harvey  My surgeon used the Acu-Tie II closure system, I am having pain, I can feel the wires poking me and my scar is uneven. Has anyone had problems with this system. It has only been on the market for 6 years and I have a feeling it is not the best way to do it. I am a year out of surgery.
Lois

Sophia Ridley  In the UK most patients are in their 60s and 70s having valve surgery. I was told that, at 42, I was young for this surgery. When I've hear stories of older patients, it's been very positive and like a new least of life. I can't comment on your individual case.

Your surgeon is best placed to answer your questions and hopefully he can put you in touch with other patients your age. Please ask him about your recovery as it will be dependant on your type of surgery and fitness prior.

I suggest that you investigate if there's local heart rehab centres and speak with them too. As I'm in UK, I'm not sure how it works in US.

Emily Rowley 
When I had my MVR, across the bed from me was a lady aged 74 who pulled through surgery great and she had multiple things of her Heart fixed through full incision. Although she did have alot of fluid on her Lungs only because she wouldn't give up Smoking! She recovered and I know you will too.
I wish you all the very best. These days the medical technology has certainly improved and Surgeons have become more experienced :D
My Surgeon performs alot of complex operations (inc Transplants) on elderly patients even in their 80's. I too am considered young at 16 & 21 to have surgery. I agree with what Sophia has said, talk to your Surgeon :)

Take care,
Emily.

Christine Oliva  Definitely talk to your doctor about any concerns you have and he/she addresses them. After surgery you probably won't feel like talking for a few days. Regarding dementia do you have signs? Generally dementia is a progressive disease so please talk to your doctor about this or any other health concerns. Blessings to you Lois and it may make you feel better talking to your doctor.