James's Profile

I was originally diagnosed with a bicuspid aortic valve which was repaired 12 and a half years ago at the Cleveland Clinic. When I asked how long this repair would last I was given a vague answer of between 1 and 10 years. Well the 10th anniversary came and went and things were still fine. About a year later I started to notice some shortness of breath but waited until my annual cardiology appointment. At the appointment I was scheduled for a heart cat and then things began moving rather quickly. My local cardiologist sent me to UVA but I was very uncomfortable there so I called Cleveland and scheduled an appointment there. After gathering all of my records and driving to Cleveland twice I met with Dr. Pettereson who discussed the various valve options with me and also discussed an experimental trial that could use Plavax and aspirin with the ON-x valve instead of the coumadin. I am still debating whether to get on board for the experimental part of this journey because the risks are unknown. I will make that decision before my surgery date of July 12th which also happens to be my anniversary. I have to say that after having experienced this type of surgery once I am NOT looking forward to my second go round. This is the main reason I chose the artificial valve. I do not want to have to do this a third time.