Sherry's Journal

I had a cardiac cath on May 21 and aortic valve now critical. I will have AVR on June 11 as my sister from California will be able to come to PA to be with me. I plan to get a power lift recliner as recommended by many. Of course, I am very nervous about the surgery. I am 72 but am considered too healthy for TAVR and coronary arteries clear.

I am new to the group, am 72 years old, and very much appreciate your letting me join your posts. I read Robin's book in 2008 when I was first diagnosed with moderate aortic stenosis. I was hoping by the time I needed surgery a less invasive procedure would be available. In 2009 I had gall bladder surgery and had a heart attack in the recovery area. There were no blocked arteries and no cause for the heart attack was found by cardiac catherization. That made me even more afraid of an open heart valve replacement. My cardiologist cannot say if I will qualify for the TAVR procedure. I will be referred to a hospital about an hour from me when winter weather improves, and I am told the surgical team will advise me which type surgery is best for me. Naturally, the whole thought of surgery makes me very nervous. I would really appreciate comments from anyone who has had or knows someone who has had the TAVR procedure.