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In July, I was able to change my insurance from Kaiser to Blue Cross Anthem.\u00a0 With my new insurance, I could choose the doctor and hospital I wanted.\u00a0 First, I checked out the best Heart Hospitals in the United States and determined locally, the best was Cedars Sinai.\u00a0 (I also contacted one of the doctors at Cleveland Heart Institute and was given the advise, “Do not wait!”)<\/p>\n
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So, with all of my research, I read about surgeons.\u00a0 Dr. Gregory Fontana<\/a> stood out amongst the surgeons I considered.\u00a0 I liked his warm persona and his qualifications.\u00a0 I was really impressed with the fact that he answered a simple email from me within fifteen minutes of my posting.\u00a0 I made an appointment, visited his office, and scheduled surgery.\u00a0 I was totally confident in his abilities and I felt that he truly cared about his patients.<\/p>\n I had my new angiogram on August 26. My artery was now 90% colluded and the valve was the same.\u00a0 On August 27, Dr. Gregory Fontana performed the surgery.\u00a0 He took the extra time to repair my aortic valve instead of replacing my valve<\/a>. Doctor Fontana used a vein from my arm for the coronary bypass.<\/p>\n Following surgery, I am grateful that I do not need to take Coumadin for the rest of my life.\u00a0 I will just take two baby aspirin a day.<\/p>\n I had a wonderful heart valve repair experience and would love for Dr. Fontana to get some recognition for his wonderful handiwork.\u00a0 I left the hospital today and I feel wonderful.\u00a0 Further, I totally commend the entire staff at Cedars Sinai.\u00a0 They were without a doubt qualified, personable and helpful.<\/p>\n