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Diagnosis: Bicuspid Aortic Valve

Member Since: April 27, 2016

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Alan Lonsberry got a guestbook from John Rubey

9 years ago (April 2, 2017)

Alan, Cathleen DeWitt said you might be a good person to ask. I'm Looking for anyone's Post Op experience after having a Mini-Thoracotomy. I'm trying to figure out what is best. Mini-Thoracotomy vs. Median sternotomy. Any input would be appreciated. Glad to see you are doing well.

Steve Farthing

FYI - Mini-thoracotomy can be done under surgeon's direct vision which requires some rib spreading or using videoscopic assistance which can eliminate rib spreading but needs an additional small 5mm incision for the camera. Some docs also place local anesthetic in the incision to reduce pain when you wake up.

Alan Lonsberry got a guestbook from Ron Broadhead

9 years ago (June 24, 2016)

Hi Alan Hope all continues to go well.

Alan Lonsberry

Thanks Ron, I am feeling great. The doc cleared me to run

Ron Broadhead

That's great Ala. You are fast in more ways than one!

Alan Lonsberry got a guestbook from Nancy Schnarr

10 years ago (June 21, 2016)

HI Alan, Glad to read that you're doing well! I'm nervous about surgery in the Fall, and I have no symptoms either - which is tough - but your story makes me feel like it will be better after! I look forward to following your recovery! Best, Nancy

Kathleen Mannino

Thursday, June 30th. Can't be soon enough. Just having pre op testing exhausted me. Does anyone out there have a valve from a cow? If so..How's it going?

Ron Broadhead

Hi Kathleen - I have a "moo valve". For me its been great. Surgery was 1 1/2 years ago and I am very active every day.

Alan Lonsberry

Thanks Nancy, it will be over and done before you know it.

Kathleen Mannino

Thanks Ron. I now have my moo valve which is looking right along. Still hear my sternum clicking away though and still hurts when I cough and sneeze. Not thrilled with the fatigue though.

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