Christie's Guestbook

Hello Christie, I read your journal and was told by my cardiologist after a heart catherization that my mitral stenosis was getting worse, and that I needed to consult a cardiac surgeon for heart valve repair or replacement. I am scheduled for surgery in July. While doing research on the internet I ran across the book: The Patient's Guide to Heart Valve Surgery, by Adam Pick. I received the book this week. Once I started reading it my attention was focused. I highly recommend this book. Thank you to Adam, my understanding of the whole process is much better. Please feel free to contact me.

Hi Christie, Welcome to the group! I am also 59 y/o and just had my mitral valve repaired at Duke University Hospital on 04/15/14. After the initial tough 2 weeks post-op I recovered very well. I am working full time after 4 weeks and playing tennis again after 8 weeks. I don't have the A-fib anymore and my stamina is better than before. Of course every MVP patient is different and the result will also be different. But the general research now shows that surgery should be done earlier to prevent heart failure and achieve better result. I was very lucky because my surgeon said if I had waited 6 more months he might not be able to repair my valve. From what you said about all the symptoms you have I think you are getting very close to that point. My suggestion is do a lot research and find a good surgeon. I wish you the best luck. Always think positive!

Christie: I would suggest you review the literature and discuss with both a cardiologist and surgeon. The echocardiogram and a transesphogeal echocardiogram would confirm the need for mitral valve surgery for moderate to severe mitral valve regurgitation. The pacemaker may be a complicating factor but the physicians should be able to discuss this with you. The days of "watchful waiting" are over for lower risk patients. There is a body of research that indicates having surgery before one is symptomatic may make sense. We are all different so you should discuss the options and risks with your doctors. Good luck as you begin this process.