“Did You Have A Heart Valve Replacement Re-Operation?” Questions John

I had a congenital bicuspid aortic valve removed in April of 2000 at the same time that I had a triple bypass. The bovine replacement started to regurgitate in August of 2007. I had it replaced with another bovine aortic valve in November of 2007. Both valves were manfactured by Edwards Life Sciences. The second is performing well and I lead a normal life for a 72 year old. I play tennis (singles & doubles) two days per week for two hour sessions, walk an 18 hole New England golf course two days per week, and work out in a gym at least two days per week.
It appears that these valves fail more frequently than we estimate. It is impossible to find out exactly why. The manufacturer publishes the statistical failure rate, but not the reason why the valves fail. There are pathological tests made on the removed valves, but it appears that the individual results are closely held secrets. Probably an insurance caution. I am happy that the manufacturers are developing valves that can be inserted through the femoral artery and hope my next one can be inserted in this method.
I hope this helps. The surgery is no easier the second time around, and the recovery is the same. There are precautions that the surgeon has to take when opening the sternum for the second time.
If anyone has been able to secure the pathological report on their removed valve I would appreciate it if you would supply me with information about how this was accomplished.

HAS ANYONE EVER HAD TROUBLE WITH THEIR EYES AFTER HAVING AORTA REPLACEMENT. EVER SINCE THE OPERATION EIGHT MONTHS AGO MY EYES GO OUT OF FOCUS QUITE OFTEN. MY EYE DOCTOR SAID MYEYES ARE OKAY. IT START RIGHT AFTER I HAD THE OPERATION

Yes, I’ve had the same problem on and off since the surgery for aortic valve and ascending aorta replacement.
Been to many exams (including CAT scan)and doctors, eye and cardio, IM, etc., with no cause identified. Probably not caused by the Lopressor type blood pressure medicine (it’s a beta-blocker) they think.
At this point everyone assumes it’s a byproduct of the surgery and/or anesthesia and that hopefully it will go away in time.

I had an aortic valve replacement and an aneurysm repair procedure done in early February of this year. The operation and recovery went very well but now I seem to be losing my hair very rapidly. I am a 62 year old male that has been taking Propecia and using Rogaine for 20 years. Could it be the stress of the open heart surgery that is causing my hair loss? Has anyone else who has had this type of surgery had hair loss like mine? Thanks!

I have had two aortic valve operations. The first one was done in 1981 (I was 30 years old) to replace my bicuspid aortic valve that I was born with. The valve used was a boivine vlave. Unfortunately I contracted bacterial endocarditis from dental work in 1987 (for the second time no less!!!). My aortic valave needed to be replaced in November 1988.My surgeon used a St. Jude mechanical valve which is now almost 21 years old.I am very active and I particiapte in golf, skiing, swimming, tennis etc.My current valve is not perfect and will eventually have to be replaced but is funtioning well at the moment. I encourage valve patients who need a replacement and who are in their 30s to consider having their surgeons use a mechanical valve. Although requiring the use of coumadin therapy, they work well and last a long time. Blood thinners are a bit of a pain, but ultimately tolerable.In my case, I believe that if my Doctos had used a mechanical valve the first time, I perhaps could have avioded a second operation so soon after the first one. I think there is a belief that coumadin poses a risk for athletically active patients but personally I have not found this to be a problem.

Stephen Waxman

This raises a very interesting question. Which type of replacement valve has had the fewest replacement operations?

I had a aortic valve replacement over a year ago and have noticed that my eyes do not focus and seem hazy.

I am 52 and been told that I need an aortic valve replacement. This was a shocking surprise to me! I have to make a decision as to what valve I want to use and soon. I am otherwise healthy and active and I take no medications at all.

I am concerned about taking blood thinnners for the remainder of my life and also the noise that a mechanical valve would make. Please help!

I am having a Ross Procedure in September. I believe that it is the best fit for me and my life style. I am concerned about those who are having vision issues, post surgery. There is alot of data out there. You just have to keep digging.