Earl's Guestbook

Hi Earl, If you will allow, I would like to provide my opinion to your question that you posted to Andrew. You ask, from a recovery perspective, the differences between the Ross Procedure and a Mechanical Valve. I feel it's difficult to fully answer that question because I only have the perspective of recovery from the Ross Procedure. I personally have had a generally smooth recovery and am doing really well at 7 months post-op. I am currently weening off of the BP meds and hopefully in 4-6 more weeks I will be med free, depending on the stability of my BP. My sternum is fully healed and doesn't bother me barring a major impact of some kind. I still get some muscle tightness but maybe that's because I am lifting weights and working out.

In my humble opinion, which is far from a doctors opinion, and only one sample observed/experienced....is that recovering from open heart surgery whether it be mechanical, bio valve or a Ross is most likely a similar experience. The after care may differ as far as medication and such. Now, you must remember that each patient is very different and there are many variables that will play into the recovery experience.

I believe there are patients who have had a mechanical valve first and then the Ross Procedure after, for various reasons. Maybe one of them will chime in with their experience from recovery having had both procedures. Again, that would only be one example and not a great study or sample for a definitive answer to your question.

Bottom line is that open heart surgery is open heart surgery. Go with your gut feeling of what you should do and how you should choose the right procedure for yourself. And, remember that "paralysis by analysis" is a real thing. Do you research and educate yourself but trust your gut feeling and go with that. Once you choose, trust the process and do your best at being at peace with your choices. I pray that you are directed to the right decision that best fits your needs. I hope this helps a little. God Bless you