My Wired Sternum Keeps It Together… Seriously!
“OOOOHHHHHH MYYYYYYY GAWWWWD!!!”
That was my first reaction when I learned that I would need open heart surgery.
“YOU ARE KIDDING ME, RIGHT?!!!”
That was my second reaction when I learned my sternum would be broken, my heart would be stopped, my aortic and pulmonary valves would be replaced, and then my chest would be stitched back together with sternal wires.
Now… Here comes the good part of the story. 
It is two years after my double valve replacement (aka the Ross Procedure)…
And…
During the past week, I had the great, and somewhat miserable, pleasure of moving into a new house with my wife Robyn.
I HAVE TO TELL YOU…
MY HEALED CHESTPLATE FELT NO PAIN OR DISCOMFORT AS I LIFTED 5,000 BOXES UP 25,000 STAIRS - IN ADDITION TO 3 DRESSERS, 4 BEDS, 2 REFRIGERATORS AND 5 SOFAS.
(Okay. I’m exaggerating some. That’s what men do when the machismo comes out.)
However, the point I’m trying to make is critical for all patients and their caregivers.
Your broken sternum can heal. Your heart can heal.
Open heart surgery is not a curse!
Open heart surgery is a medical blessing!
Happy 2008!!!
Keep on tickin!
Adam Pick is the author of The Patient’s Guide To Heart Valve Surgery, a unique book which integrates the clinical facts of heart valve surgery with the personal experiences of an actual heart valve surgery patient. This special book was designed to help patients and caregivers better understand the realities of heart valve surgery (heart valve replacement and heart valve repair), to minimize patient stress and to enhance the patient’s recovery. To learn more about Adam’s heart valve surgery book, click here.
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December 31st, 2007 at 3:11 pm
Hi Adam,
I am 56yrs, and my surgery is set for Feb 5th. I have read your book, and it helped with my axiety. I don’t feel like I am going crazy. However when I learned that the surgeon uses WIRE AND IT STAYS IN YOUR STERNUM I WAS MORTIFIED!! I’m just thankful I decided to read your blog again. I have been looking for more info on this very issue. Seems like no one talks about it. I am having my bicuspid aortic valve replaced with a third generation tissue valve.
Thanks again for your book, and your blog! What a blessing!
Kathy Mccain
PS I wish you and Robyn many happy years together!
January 10th, 2008 at 10:53 pm
Wow! Adam, I had no idea you guys had moved! I can’t wait to see the new place. And I’m thrilled that your heart v2.0 is working so well. Your story is amazing.
All the best,
Joe
January 11th, 2008 at 7:44 am
Hi Adam,
Thanks for your comment on my blog. When I’m feeling worried about my surgery I’ll try and remember to come back and read your blog as you are so positive about everything! Thanks for the encouragement.
Best wishes,
Lilian