It’s hard to believe that a month has passed since my AVR. My recovery has proceeded without complication (knock wood). I’ve gained more strength and ...Read more
It’s hard to believe that a month has passed since my AVR. My recovery has proceeded without complication (knock wood). I’ve gained more strength and stamina each day. I’m back at work and am walking 3 hilly miles per day, even wearing a weighted backpack at times. And as an added bonus, I’m not constantly thinking about my condition for the first time since my diagnosis in December.
I have my follow up with my surgeon on Monday and am hoping to get clearance to weight train again. Ironically, my neighbor and longtime running buddy had a mild heart attack on Monday while running. Thank goodness that he is now doing well after receiving a couple of stents. One of the bonuses of this experience has been that I’m now in a unique position to be able to be a sounding board as he processes what has happened to him.
Susan Lynn Mike - Congratulations on your 1-month Anniversary! Sounds like you're doing well. Three hilly mile ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - Congratulations on your 1-month Anniversary! Sounds like you're doing well. Three hilly miles is excellent progress. Keep up the great work! ❤
Mike Dotson Thanks Susan, and thank you so much for your support and the support that you have given so many othe ... Read more
Mike Dotson Thanks Susan, and thank you so much for your support and the support that you have given so many others.
Susan Lynn You're quite welcome, Mike! I'm so glad I could help! ❤
David Smith Belated congrats Mike! Keep up the great job and the great support you can give your buddy! I’m sur ... Read more
David Smith Belated congrats Mike! Keep up the great job and the great support you can give your buddy! I’m sure it’s comforting and reassuring to him 🙂
Overall, my rehab experience was disappointing. I was hoping that I would be able to elevate my exertion level to at least moderate intensity to see how my ...Read more
Overall, my rehab experience was disappointing. I was hoping that I would be able to elevate my exertion level to at least moderate intensity to see how my heart responds under monitored conditions. Instead I was relegated to walking on a treadmill at 2.5 mph for 20 minutes (holding the handrails- a requirement) and 15 minutes on a recombination bike. Also, the doctor who was there did not introduce himself and just listened to my heart/lungs and walked away, giving no feedback. I’m not sure how much I’m going to get out of this so I’ll complete the 3 sessions this week then reevaluate. Maybe subsequent sessions will be more useful. I’ll continue to increase the length of my walks in my neighborhood and wait until my follow up consult with my surgeon to see when it will be safe to start lifting weights again.
rich monoson Mike, I understand completely. I told my cardiac rehab nurse that it's hard to walk this slow on the ... Read more
rich monoson Mike, I understand completely. I told my cardiac rehab nurse that it's hard to walk this slow on the treadmill. I promised my cardiologist I would go to cardiac rehab. I went three times and told them I'll handle the rehab. I went to my gym and used the elliptical (about ten days after surgery). I did light leg work on machines and light cable work. My only concern was a non union of the sternum so I avoided the chest pressing. Just like yourself I walked miles around the neighborhood as well as the gym. Always felt a dynamic body heals better than an inactive one. For many cardiac rehab is great and necessary. They are very good and steeped in medical science. For me I know I needed something different. With all your years training/powerlifting you have a good sense what your body needs. This is not to offer any medical advice but I just wanted to share someone of the same mindsets experience. I dont want to get in trouble here but I hit it pretty hard and responded well. Just wanted to let you know I had the same cardiac rehab experience. Keep us posted Mike.
Mike Dotson Thanks Rich. Much appreciated. Like you said, cardiac rehab is great and necessary for many. I’m bl ... Read more
Mike Dotson Thanks Rich. Much appreciated. Like you said, cardiac rehab is great and necessary for many. I’m blessed that my conditioning going into surgery was solid so that helps. That plus they didn’t have to open my sternum up. I don’t have a problem taking a conservative approach but this was a little too conservative. Your progress is an inspiration and it is super helpful to hear from someone with a similar mindset.
Marie Myers My cardiologist literally told me if cardiac rehab was “too lame”, I could do my own thing...
Joseph Heinzmann I did not sign up for cardiac rehab. I have kept a diligent diary of every day since surgery with eve ... Read more
Joseph Heinzmann I did not sign up for cardiac rehab. I have kept a diligent diary of every day since surgery with every workout (only doing cardio, no strength work yet), the distance walked, speed, time, HR range, HR recovery, and how I felt. I share this with my cardiologist, in writing, and shared it with my surgeon in advance of my post-op appointment. I specifically asked if I should be doing anything more/less/different. I'm sure the rehab people are good at what they do but I feel like working out at home, on the trails I am accustomed to walking, and being able to then relax in my home without worrying about a ride home, is a better program for me.
Mike, if anyone took a stethoscope to my chest and didn't tell me what they heard, I would ask them before they took more than one step away. I can't believe that you would get no feedback, especially while going through post-surgery rehab. It takes nothing to tell you everything is OK, or that something is amiss. And it is our absolute right to know that.
Rich, I hear you loud and clear on the slow treadmill walking. I can't walk under 3mph on a treadmill or it feels like I'm shuffling like an old man.
I'm thinking about starting little TRX assisted pushups this week. I'll be able to modify the load pretty easily and mark the floor so I can gauge progress. Going to take that slowly.
Putting my lawyer hat on for a moment, I'm pretty confident that there is no motive to push limits in cardiac rehab. I imagine that their first thought (from above) is limiting liability and that their second thought is improving your fitness.
rich monoson Glad to hear things are going so well Joseph. Love that go get it mindset. Mike and Joseph, its great ... Read more
rich monoson Glad to hear things are going so well Joseph. Love that go get it mindset. Mike and Joseph, its great to see you guys with such a determined and positive attitude!
Rose Madura I did not do cardiac rehab and have no regrets.
Susan Lynn Mike - You're waaaaaay ahead of the average 13 day post-op heart patient. I didn't start cardiac reh ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - You're waaaaaay ahead of the average 13 day post-op heart patient. I didn't start cardiac rehab for several months due to the scheduling at my facility and I was started very slowly. I'm sorry that the staff isn't more engaging - half the benefit of cardiac rehab is the inspiring interaction with the participants and professionals. Give it a bit longer and see if you feel more challenged in a week or two. Best of luck to you!
Marshall Rader I'm 60 years old , and wondering which valve in choosing??
Each day sees an incremental change in my strength and stamina. I’ve slowly ramped up the walking from 1/4 mile, 1/2 mile, 3/4 mile, and today 1 mile in ...Read more
Each day sees an incremental change in my strength and stamina. I’ve slowly ramped up the walking from 1/4 mile, 1/2 mile, 3/4 mile, and today 1 mile in the morning and evening. Each walk has been progressively faster with a lower heart rate. I feel capable of more but I’m not going to rush this. Lots of laying around and Netflix. I helped my daughter pick out her HS graduation ring last night and found myself getting choked up. I am overwhelmed with gratitude at being alive and the time I have with my family.
And hopefully making brownies for them. A lot to be grateful for Mike. Continued good health and reco ... Read more
And hopefully making brownies for them. A lot to be grateful for Mike. Continued good health and recovery. God bless you
David Smith It’s excellent you are doing well and progressing every day! Two other things we have in common... ... Read more
David Smith It’s excellent you are doing well and progressing every day! Two other things we have in common... Netflix is my friend and my daughter graduates from HS as well! That scares me more than my surgery!! Prom dresses. Yikes! BTW... loved your rabbit story 😊
Joseph Heinzmann Mike,
So happy to hear that you are making it through the early recovery process. Those first walks a ... Read more
Joseph Heinzmann Mike,
So happy to hear that you are making it through the early recovery process. Those first walks are so important both mentally and physically. Be smart. I rushed early and ended up going a little backwards. Sounds like you're being smarter than I was. Keep up the great work!
It was an unexpected sight. Amid the bustle of early morning shift change near the entrance of UT Southwestern Medical Center, a lone rabbit stood twitching ...Read more
It was an unexpected sight. Amid the bustle of early morning shift change near the entrance of UT Southwestern Medical Center, a lone rabbit stood twitching and trembling. We made eye contact briefly before he hopped away into the darkness, pausing briefly to glance back at me. I could sense what he was feeling...scared and out of place. But I also knew that today was the day and this was the place to finally bridge the chasm from anxiety to recovery. I took a deep breath and walked through the wide sliding glass doors and up to the admission desk. “I’m Mike Dotson and I’m here for surgery”.
I am now back at home on my 5th day since my AVR after being discharged Friday. We stayed overnight in a hotel and made the 4 hour drive back home on Saturday. Many of my memories are blurry but my most prominent ones center around the professionalism and compassion of the staff at UT Southwestern. Dr. Doolabh and his medical team, the world class nurses, med techs and all other members of the support staff were simply amazing. Every interaction conveys that you are at the right place.
And, of course, I am grateful beyond words for my wife’s loving support during this...what is the word...ordeal?...experience? With COVID restrictions limiting visitors at most hospitals, I was fortunate to be able to have her stay in my room both when I was in ICU and then on the telemetry unit. I don’t think I could have been as brave as she if the shoe were on the other foot.
The only hiccup for me was the excruciating pain that I felt for approximately 36 hours due to my chest drain tube. Unfortunately, the various pain medications that were tried had minimal effect or made me want to vomit. And believe me, I didn’t want to vomit. Anything more than a shallow breath felt like a knife was being jabbed deep into the area under my right shoulder blade. I have never experienced anything so intense. Since I know others about to take this journey may come across this, I want to make it clear that although discomfort from the chest tube is common, apparently there are a few people, depending on where the tube lies and what it is touching, who experience greater pain. Once the chest tube came out, I felt 1000% relief.
Now, finally my focus is on recovery, both physical and mental. After an okay nights sleep last night, I was able shower (gingerly), amble into the kitchen, and make myself a bowl of cereal. Small but significant steps. I can’t imagine going through this without the support, knowledge and wisdom of those on this board who have trod this path before. I hope I can be as helpful to others starting this journey as you have been to me.
Susan Lynn Mike - What an eloquent recap! Sorry to hear about the pain of your chest tube - glad you're home no ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - What an eloquent recap! Sorry to hear about the pain of your chest tube - glad you're home now and on the road to recovery. Wishing you all the best! ❤
Joseph Heinzmann Mike, so happy you are home and getting to make your own cereal. Take it slow and enjoy the gradual p ... Read more
Joseph Heinzmann Mike, so happy you are home and getting to make your own cereal. Take it slow and enjoy the gradual progress you will make each day.
I agree with my angel Susan Lynn, eloquent indeed. Sad you had so much pain from your chest tubes but ... Read more
I agree with my angel Susan Lynn, eloquent indeed. Sad you had so much pain from your chest tubes but glad they were removed and you are now home. Your wife is a strong woman and glad you had her with you. Make sure you don’t overdo anything but if you can walk around the house please do. Rest when you feel tired. Continued recovery and good health. We are here for you, God bless you
Mike Tirrell Great writeup Mike, thanks and congrats on a smooth surgery
Martin Smith So glad to read that your recovery is underway, Mike!
Laura Julius Im so happy to hear about your recovery! My chest tube definitely made breathing difficult; it felt s ... Read more
Laura Julius Im so happy to hear about your recovery! My chest tube definitely made breathing difficult; it felt so much better to have it taken out. I wasn’t crazy about the pacing wires being removed. Those hurt a bit but it was over rather quickly and the surgeon distracted me.
As Adele said, Hello from the other side,
I too exhausted for a long post but I will write up my thoughts about the experience next week. I just wanted to ...Read more
As Adele said, Hello from the other side,
I too exhausted for a long post but I will write up my thoughts about the experience next week. I just wanted to let everyone know that I made it and if things go according to plan, I will be discharged either tomorrow or Saturday.
Chris Hall Welcome to recovery. Take it easy but Keep Moving
I just got back to our hotel room after a morning of tests, CAT scan, X-ray, labs, etc. The facility at UT Southwestern is beautiful. I felt a little better ...Read more
I just got back to our hotel room after a morning of tests, CAT scan, X-ray, labs, etc. The facility at UT Southwestern is beautiful. I felt a little better after meeting with Dr. Doolabh’s PA who patiently answered all the questions my wife and I had. I’m feeling a better than I did last night but I’m n’t going to lie...I’m nervous as heck. I’ve been told that my chances of making it through surgery and having a strong recovery are good. I know this cognitively but I just need for my emotional side to catch up to my logical/rational side.
Susan Lynn Mike - The pre-game emotions do come rushing back as I'm reading your post. But, for you, it will f ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - The pre-game emotions do come rushing back as I'm reading your post. But, for you, it will feel like a quick nap and you'll be on the road to recovery in a moment! You'll sleep well tomorrow, in between munching on the world's greatest ice chips, and Wednesday will be the first full day of getting back to your life! Walk when you can - it's the key to getting out of the hospital and back to all your future great adventures! You've totally got this - we did it, you will, too! We'll be waiting for you! ❤
Rose Madura Only those who have been through this journey know and understand how you feel. Best wishes for a su ... Read more
Rose Madura Only those who have been through this journey know and understand how you feel. Best wishes for a successful surgery and uneventful recovery.
Joseph Heinzmann We're all here for you and looking forward to hearing good news. You have our support, our prayers, a ... Read more
Joseph Heinzmann We're all here for you and looking forward to hearing good news. You have our support, our prayers, and our good wishes. Stay strong and confident.
I finally heard back regarding my new surgery date. I'm on for March 2nd.
Glad you got your surgery appointment. How are things for you and your family, any water yet? Praying ... Read more
Glad you got your surgery appointment. How are things for you and your family, any water yet? Praying for you guys. Blessings
Mike Dotson Hi Ana. We finally got back electricity last night. It was so good to finally have heat and to be a ... Read more
Mike Dotson Hi Ana. We finally got back electricity last night. It was so good to finally have heat and to be able to cook. We are still under a boil water advisory but at least our toilets flush! It's been a pretty big mess statewide, but hopefully it will start to return to normal soon.
Susan Lynn Congrats on getting your new date. Glad your electricity is back on, too. You will be in and out o ... Read more
Susan Lynn Congrats on getting your new date. Glad your electricity is back on, too. You will be in and out of the hospital with better weather for the trip! All the best, Mike! ❤
Laura Julius I'll be following you into surgery a few days later, Mike. I'll be thinking of you on the second! Pra ... Read more
Laura Julius I'll be following you into surgery a few days later, Mike. I'll be thinking of you on the second! Praying for you!
Deena Elani Thinking of you, Mike. You have been through a whirlwind of events. March 2nd will be here soon and ... Read more
Deena Elani Thinking of you, Mike. You have been through a whirlwind of events. March 2nd will be here soon and your stronger heart will be there with you! With time, your weightlifting will be even better than before! You are stronger than you can ever know.
We finally got our electricity turned back on after going 2 days without it. This has truly been an historic winter storm for these parts. We continue to ...Read more
We finally got our electricity turned back on after going 2 days without it. This has truly been an historic winter storm for these parts. We continue to be without water due to multiple mains busting throughout the town. Nothing like a winter storm to get one’s mind off upcoming heart surgery. It also makes one appreciate the basics of life that most of us take for granted.
I have yet to hear anything back from the nurse regarding a new day for surgery.
I have been thinking about you and your family with this severe winter storm that hit your State. Gla ... Read more
I have been thinking about you and your family with this severe winter storm that hit your State. Glad you at least have your electricity turned back on. Sorry about the water though. It’s been a nightmare for all of you and I’m praying that soon you will all get back to normal. A lot of repairs to be done. Hang in there, the nurse will schedule your surgery when it is safe for you to travel and for things to get better. I’m sure the hospital workers are also reeling from this winter storm. Be well and know I’m praying for you guys. God bless you and your family 🙏❤️
The winter storm that has descended has made travel impossible. I can barely get out of my front door. 8 degrees with snowdrifts several feet high all around. ...Read more
The winter storm that has descended has made travel impossible. I can barely get out of my front door. 8 degrees with snowdrifts several feet high all around. Dallas is supposed to get another round of it on Wednesday. This is to say that my surgery is unlikely to happen this week. I haven't slept well or been able to concentrate well since my diagnosis. I'm just ready to get the damn think over with, get on to recovery.
Susan Lynn Mike - It's frustrating to have your surgery rescheduled once you're emotionally prepared for it, bu ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - It's frustrating to have your surgery rescheduled once you're emotionally prepared for it, but it's better safe than sorry. Glad you're not going to travel in the terrible weather. Hang in there! Your turn will be here, soon. ❤
Mike Dotson Thanks Lynn. The Serenity Prayer will be on heavy rotation this week.
Rose Madura I had my surgery postponed cor a week and it really shook me up. I cried all day. I even watched ol ... Read more
Rose Madura I had my surgery postponed cor a week and it really shook me up. I cried all day. I even watched old JFK assassination documentaries to get my mind on something else. I know how it feels. Praying for peace for you. Godspeed.
Mike Tirrell Hang in there Mike. I can't imagine the frustration of having your surgery moved but it is all happe ... Read more
Mike Tirrell Hang in there Mike. I can't imagine the frustration of having your surgery moved but it is all happening for a reason.
Wouldn’t you know it. On top of stress I’ve been going through leading up to my operation in 5 days we now have an aortic storm blowing in. This will ...Read more
Wouldn’t you know it. On top of stress I’ve been going through leading up to my operation in 5 days we now have an aortic storm blowing in. This will make our journey to Dallas perilous, and I’ve had enough perilousness to last me for a long while. I changed our reservations to come in a day earlier (Sunday) to try to beat the worse of it but even then the forecast looks dicey. I’m still trying prepare mentally for the operation and what’s on the other side of it.
I had an emotional conversation with my wife earlier today to help her prepare for any outcome. I continue to be cheered and inspired by the stories everyone has shared. I’m worn down and ready to start recovering both physically and mentally. I just finished baking some some brownies at my daughter’s request and then saw the most beautiful bright red cardinal outside my dining room window. A nice diversion from all my ruminating.
Joseph McDonnell Hi Mike
I had my aortic valve replaced in July 2020, and like yourself I was really anxious, I rememb ... Read more
Joseph McDonnell Hi Mike
I had my aortic valve replaced in July 2020, and like yourself I was really anxious, I remember preparing for all possible outcomes and discussing this my wife.
I found the waiting very difficult however the minute I was admitted to the hospital the stress disappeared the staff at the Mater Hospital Dublin really reassured me.
The first few weeks post surgery were a bit difficult but progress was quick and now I am able to jog 5km and back at work.
I am sure things will go well for you, and you will be in our prayers.
Best of luck with everything.
Susan Lynn Mike - Safe traveling! Good luck next week. You're going to be just fine. We'll be here anxiousl ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - Safe traveling! Good luck next week. You're going to be just fine. We'll be here anxiously awaiting your post-op good news! ❤
Joseph Heinzmann We are all in your corner, Mike! I'm sure you're taking care of yourself and that you've put yourself ... Read more
Joseph Heinzmann We are all in your corner, Mike! I'm sure you're taking care of yourself and that you've put yourself in a great position to recover well. After doing all that work, trust the great team that will get you through this. My experience was that every single person involved in my surgery and recovery was elite. There were no average nurses, no average doctors, and no average anything on the heart surgery team. They are amazing at what they do, committed to excellence, and compassionate caring professionals. Trust the team.
Also, good idea making those brownies. Now your daughter has to cook for you when you come home!
After feeling great yesterday, I started having heart palpitations prior to bedtime. My heart rate also jumped up to 140 for a couple of minutes, then down ...Read more
After feeling great yesterday, I started having heart palpitations prior to bedtime. My heart rate also jumped up to 140 for a couple of minutes, then down to 120 for a couple more. It stabilized and dropped down to the low 70’s on the drive over to the ER and stayed there. All tests were WNL (other than what they already know about my previously diagnosed aortic stenosis). No afib. As if I needed something else to increase my anxiety leading up to my surgery!
Hi Mike, so sorry you had this episode but it seems they took good care of you at the ER. You will do ... Read more
Hi Mike, so sorry you had this episode but it seems they took good care of you at the ER. You will do well in surgery and will be back here into recovery. I will pray for your serenity and peace of mind. Hang in there dear friend, God bless you
Mike Dotson Thank you so much for your encouraging words Ana. It’s so clichè to say but this has been an emoti ... Read more
Mike Dotson Thank you so much for your encouraging words Ana. It’s so clichè to say but this has been an emotional rollercoaster. I can feel semi confident one hour only to return to feeling extremely anxious the next. It’s miserable but I’m grateful to have all this support from those who have travelled this path.
Rose Madura Trips to the ER are definitely no fun. Glad everything stabilized. Stay strong. If I got through ... Read more
Rose Madura Trips to the ER are definitely no fun. Glad everything stabilized. Stay strong. If I got through it, so can you. The odds are definitely un your favor.
Marie Myers You did the right thing by getting checked out. Hope you don’t have any other bumps in the road.
Elyse Sherman You absolutely did the right thing, Mike. My AVR surgery was 1/15 and for the month leading up to the ... Read more
Elyse Sherman You absolutely did the right thing, Mike. My AVR surgery was 1/15 and for the month leading up to the surgery, I was alternately anxious, depressed and those rare moments of being at peace between. This is the most emotionally difficult time, I hear you. Thankfully for us all, there are those who came before us on this amazing site and can offer information and solace to us so that we don’t feel quite as alone. I have a wonderfully supportive husband as well as many supportive friends, but all you guys have “been there” and were able to help me through this the most. Reach out when you need to, Mike, our fellow Heart Valve Warriors are amazing 💕
I’t’s been an eventful 24 hours. Yesterday I had my consultation with Dr. Doolabh and my head is just now clearing from the sedation of this morning’s ...Read more
I’t’s been an eventful 24 hours. Yesterday I had my consultation with Dr. Doolabh and my head is just now clearing from the sedation of this morning’s heart cath procedure. The good news is that they found not blockages so it is only the valve that needs to be replaced. I’m waiting for confirmation but my surgery should be in mid February. Dr. Doolabh rates my chances of living through the surgery (I asked) as 99%. He also said that there are fewer complications with the technique he uses and that I should be able to resume my presurgery lifestyle once I recover from. I sure hope this is true. I will likely be going with the On-X mechanical. I have some concerns about the clicking and Warfarin management but these are outweighed by the potential of deterioration and ultimate replacement of a tissue valve. I don’’t want to go through this again or put my family through it again. I have goals on the other side of this. I just need to get there.
Susan Lynn Woo-hoo! No blockages!! Great news! The valve choice is definitely an individual one. There are ... Read more
Susan Lynn Woo-hoo! No blockages!! Great news! The valve choice is definitely an individual one. There are lots of On-X heart warriors on this site and I don't recall many complaining about the sound. It's probably like having a grandfather clock - you don't even notice the chiming after a short time. All the best, Mike! ❤
Rose Madura Sounds like you have everything under control. Best wishes and keep us posted.
I had my consult with the cardiologist today. Since I'm asymptomatic, she said that I should plan on having my valve replaced in a 6-12 month timeframe. She ...Read more
I had my consult with the cardiologist today. Since I'm asymptomatic, she said that I should plan on having my valve replaced in a 6-12 month timeframe. She also said that I'm an excellent candidate and she rates my prognosis as excellent. I hope so. I'll wait to see what the surgeon says. She also noted my anxiety and said that there is no value in waiting. Although I am still terrified by going under (I wish I wasn't but I'm being honest) I don't think I can deal with having this hanging over my head for much longer. I'm scheduled for a consult with a surgeon (Dr. Doolabh) on Monday and then a heart cath on Tuesday. I think things are going to move pretty fast from there.
Susan Lynn Good news, Mike! Once you feel confident in your surgeon, you'll be ready to have your procedure im ... Read more
Susan Lynn Good news, Mike! Once you feel confident in your surgeon, you'll be ready to have your procedure immediately. The wait is torturous, but the surgery itself feels like a one-minute nap. It's over in what seems like an instant. You're going to do just fine! ❤
Mike, once you meet your surgeon and if you feel comfortable with him, you will be ready and have muc ... Read more
Mike, once you meet your surgeon and if you feel comfortable with him, you will be ready and have much less anxiety. Let us know how it went. Praying for you, God bless you
Rose Madura The wait is rough. But be thankful you aren't in an emergency situation. As the others have said, ... Read more
Rose Madura The wait is rough. But be thankful you aren't in an emergency situation. As the others have said, you'll feel better after a consultation with the surgeon. And don't forget that you can always get a 2nd opinion If hat will make you feel better.
Mike Dotson Thank you all. I think this is the toughest thing I've every had to deal with.
Charles P I understand your pain and anxiety. It is tough, mentally & physically. Have you finalized where you ... Read more
Charles P I understand your pain and anxiety. It is tough, mentally & physically. Have you finalized where you are getting the surgery and which valve did you choose? Take care and hang in there!
Mike Dotson Thanks Charles, I have my consult with Dr. Doolabh at UT Southwestern in Plano on Monday. I picked h ... Read more
Mike Dotson Thanks Charles, I have my consult with Dr. Doolabh at UT Southwestern in Plano on Monday. I picked him because he has done over 3000 minimally invasive (mini thorotomy and the hospital is rated #14 in the nation for valve replacement surgery (at least that’s what my research tells me). I figure if I have to have this done, why not go with the option that can shorten recovery. I’ve 90% certain that I’m going with the On-X, I’ve many questions for Dr. Doolabh, but that’s my plan at this point.
Rose Madura Hi Mike. I'm sure you have already thought of this but make a written list of your questions so you d ... Read more
Rose Madura Hi Mike. I'm sure you have already thought of this but make a written list of your questions so you don't forget to ask any of them. Hang in there.
Charles P It's hard to tell the dates of these comments. Are meeting with the Dr. on 2/8? I'm still on the fen ... Read more
Charles P It's hard to tell the dates of these comments. Are meeting with the Dr. on 2/8? I'm still on the fence between the SJM and On-X. Ask your Dr. which valve (he believes) has better hemodynamics. And which one he has more experience with implanting and why he prefers one over the other. Could be interesting! Please share results! Thanks!
I’m still waiting for my appointment with the cardiologist next week. Hopefully that will give me a better idea as to my surgery timeframe. In the meantime, ...Read more
I’m still waiting for my appointment with the cardiologist next week. Hopefully that will give me a better idea as to my surgery timeframe. In the meantime, I’ve tried to channel my anxiety by reading, researching, and walking. Today, I came across information about a minimally invasive approach done by Dr. Doolabh at UT Southwestern in Plano, TX claiming shorter time on the heart-lung machine and significantly shorter post op recovery time. Anyone else have experience with this?
Susan Lynn Mike - I had minimally invasive mitral valve surgery via a side incision, a.k.a., a mini-thoracotomy ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - I had minimally invasive mitral valve surgery via a side incision, a.k.a., a mini-thoracotomy. I was on the heart-lung machine for approximately an hour and a half for my particular procedure. I was out of the hospital in 3 days and had almost no pain. Note: You do have some nerves frozen for the mini-t, so there is numbness and 'pins and needles' sensations on your side for a year or more - very tolerable but noticeable. I had a very small scar - maybe 2.5 inches - almost invisible now. There is also an additional incision above your thigh as the connection to the heart- lung machine is through the femoral artery.
The recovery is easy. There's no driving restrictions. I was tired, but felt great, otherwise.
You want to make the choice that's right for you. The first priority is a successful procedure. Remember, only the entry is different - the surgery is the same once they get in there. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Make the choice that's right for you! Good luck! ❤
Mike Dotson That is super helpful Susan. I definitely agree that the first and most important priority is having ... Read more
Mike Dotson That is super helpful Susan. I definitely agree that the first and most important priority is having a successful procedure, aka living through it!
Yes, it is my understanding that the difference between a sternotomy and a mini-thoracotomy is how the heart is accessed. Otherwise, same risk (provided the surgeon is experienced), same heart/lung machine, etc. My thinking is that if all other things are equal, why not choose the procedure that will reduce my recovery time? The whole thing is still terrifying but seeing that this may be available to me and hearing of your experience makes it a little less so.
What type of valve did you decide on? I've gone back and forth on this many times and am currently thinking mechanical, mainly because I don't ever want to go through with this again!
Adam Pick Mike, There are a lot of happy patients who had minimally invasive surgery. Take the time to find a ... Read more
See patient reviews, physician biography, videos and contact information for Dr. Neelan Doolabh, heart surgeon, in Dallas, Texas.
Susan Lynn Mike - I had my mitral valve repaired, so I didn't need to make the mechanical v. bio valve decision. ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - I had my mitral valve repaired, so I didn't need to make the mechanical v. bio valve decision. I can say, I told my surgeon I only wanted to go through this procedure one time, too! However, in your situation, there have been significant improvements in bio valves and valve-in-valve replacements via TAVR, that make this option far more appealing than it used to be. Now that I know heart surgery isn't nearly as bad as I thought, I would choose a bio valve rather than live with the restrictions and risks associated with life-long blood thinners. The choice is very personal - think about what's right for you. ❤
Mike Dotson Thanks Adam! I called Dr. Doolabh's office just now and arranged for a consultation on the 25th. ... Read more
Mike Dotson Thanks Adam! I called Dr. Doolabh's office just now and arranged for a consultation on the 25th.
Susan, you wrote..."Now that I know heart surgery isn't nearly as bad as I thought". I'm going to try to take those words to heart as I prepare for what's to come. Right now, the lead up is excruciating. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your expertise and lived experience.
Susan Lynn Mike - Please don't hesitate to ask me or the other heart warriors on this site any questions you may ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - Please don't hesitate to ask me or the other heart warriors on this site any questions you may have before, during, or after your procedure. That's why we're here! Most of us will tell you, waiting is the worst part! By the time you reach game day, you'll have the hardest part behind you. You can do this!
Lisa Coombe My first surgeon was going to do this but I would be waiting 6+ months for my next appointment just t ... Read more
Lisa Coombe My first surgeon was going to do this but I would be waiting 6+ months for my next appointment just to see him, I have another surgeon and I’m not sure what he will be doing yet but I don’t have to wait as long and will have my first appointment with him next month
I've been obsessively educating myself on all things aortic stenosis. I also enjoy books, audiobooks, and podcasts. What are you all reading and listening ...Read more
I've been obsessively educating myself on all things aortic stenosis. I also enjoy books, audiobooks, and podcasts. What are you all reading and listening to that has helped you though this journey?
Marie Myers Along with getting info on aortic aneurysms, I listened to UTube meditations on “acceptance” and ... Read more
Marie Myers Along with getting info on aortic aneurysms, I listened to UTube meditations on “acceptance” and other anti-anxiety videos. I think they helped me more than the information on aneurysms, but I do think you have to do a bit of both. You have to get the info to make a good, informed decision on your surgery, but then at some point you have to just accept that it is all happening and go with it.
Steven Methot Mike, there are many good books out there that are inspirational, but the one thing that helped me mo ... Read more
Steven Methot Mike, there are many good books out there that are inspirational, but the one thing that helped me most so far has been actually writing. I got something called a "Writer's book of days" which contains prompts and a suggestion that you spend 10 minutes writing based on that prompt. That's it, that's all. No editing, no second thoughts, just write. What it's done is helped me connect with what I'm feeling because in some way it all comes back to linking your conscious and sub-conscious minds, your memories, your feelings. Even something as simple as today's : "Write about Sunday afternoon" can reveal things when you look back on what you've written weeks or months later. So write - and read your own work!
stephanie arnold that sounds neat. I sure have read my fill of medical info. I even checked a couple you tube vids on ... Read more
stephanie arnold that sounds neat. I sure have read my fill of medical info. I even checked a couple you tube vids on open heart surgery(yuk)but I am a research freak,,ever since I was a kid and read my daddy's medical books,and my worid book encyclopedia...
So many things spin through my mind when I contemplate what's to come. A little more than a week ago I was blissfully going about my business, unafraid to ...Read more
So many things spin through my mind when I contemplate what's to come. A little more than a week ago I was blissfully going about my business, unafraid to climb a ladder, exercise, do yard work, etc. Now, I find myself unintentionally hyper aware of every bodily signal and likely over-interpreting their meaning . I hate it. I fear this will get worse once I get a valve. For those who have been post op for a while...does that go away after the healing is done or is it just something that will have to be managed?
Dear Mike, recovery it’s a slow process. But as time goes by you think less and less about what you ... Read more
Dear Mike, recovery it’s a slow process. But as time goes by you think less and less about what you went through. I for one sit sometimes like tonite and recalled the whole process and the feelings that we as a family went through. The hiccups that occur sometimes scare you a little but they too pass and you move on. As I said before, I exercise, do yard work and am careful when climbing a ladder as I have developed an auditory issue on my right ear that causes some dizziness and I don’t want to fall. Other than that those scary thoughts have gone away and even with this pandemic I feel I’m living a full life. You will be fine, just think recovery and know you will managed well and you will be encouraging to others on this site. God bless you
Rose Madura I agree with Ana. I too, will go through the whole process again in my mind and just thank God that ... Read more
Rose Madura I agree with Ana. I too, will go through the whole process again in my mind and just thank God that I'm alive and doing so well. I had a lot of complications and was readmitted four times and spent 24 total days in the hospital but I trusted the doctor and I trusted God that all would be ok. I exercise regularly now. At first, because of the complications, I was very cautious but now, I don't even think about it. It will get better for you. Hang in there.
Rita Savelis There is pre-surgery anxiety and then post-surgery anxiety. It passes and you get on with things. ... Read more
Rita Savelis There is pre-surgery anxiety and then post-surgery anxiety. It passes and you get on with things. Surgery goes quickly, recovery takes longer and is different for everyone. There are some hard days. You take them one day at a time. And then years down the line you don't think about your heart as much anymore. Take care.
Civita Fahey it takes some time not to be afraid.. I was constantly looking at my heart rate and was terrified tha ... Read more
Civita Fahey it takes some time not to be afraid.. I was constantly looking at my heart rate and was terrified that it would go top high. Time heals all wounds, as they say.. I'm almost 4 years out and I still feel I don't push myself when I work as much I should. So, some of it stays with us. We are all different as my friends Ana, Rose and Rita have said.. you will find your pace. You'll know at the beginning when you have over done, you'll be exhausted. I went back to work at a desk job after 10 weeks and for a month, I came home and had to rest. But, after that 4-5 month time I started to be myself. I think to be totally honest, I didn't feel 100% until about a year, but I was able to do everything I needed to do, just took some extra rests. As Rita said, there is a lot of anxiety that goes with this, I actually was put on anti anxiety meds for about year, but now I no longer need them. Its a "complication" of the surgery, but like everything else, sometimes I forget I had surgery unless I see my scar. Your fears and anxieties are to be expected, I know I had them and this group was my savior. There are such wonderful people here willing to share their experiences and knowing they got through it got me through it. You will do the same.
Dan Baltazor It takes some time for the anxiety to get quiet, and I wasn't prepared for the level of anxiety I had ... Read more
Dan Baltazor It takes some time for the anxiety to get quiet, and I wasn't prepared for the level of anxiety I had, BUT it eventually goes away. I felt what you describe before my surgery and after for about a year post op. It lessens substantially about 6-8 months post op, and then one day, you'll catch yourself thinking about it and realize you haven't thought about it for days. Hang in there. As others have said, recovery is kind of slow and is different for everyone but you will recover!!!! Try and distract yourself with the holidays and enjoy your loved ones. Easier said than done I realize, but all of us post op have done it and this a journey needed to be take one day at a time.
Denise L Hi Mike. YES You will survive this! I wondered the same thing but am now just about three weeks post ... Read more
Denise L Hi Mike. YES You will survive this! I wondered the same thing but am now just about three weeks post Mitral Valve replacement and TAVR along with some other stuff I am not even sure of as the Holidays are delaying my post surgical appt with the surgeon.
I won't lie, this becoming a Heart Warrior IS a big deal, but you CAN and WILL do it! Just take one step at a time, prepare methodically it will help you feel a little less in a tailspin! Keep in touch on this site, it helps!