Susan's Guestbook

Susan Eckermann  Hi Larry. I was released from the hospital 1 week ago today, 5 days post-surgery. My incision was closed with surgical glue and a "Pico" bandage applied. I'd never seen or heard of this bandage before but learned it is a "negative pressure wound therapy" designed to "draw out excess fluid and protect the wound." It came with a small battery pack that I easily carried in my pocket. The Pico was removed during a post-op appointment about a week after my surgery. Surgical staff advised me to leave my incision uncovered as much as possible, and to not use any creams, lotions, or anything else on the incision site. For daily cleaning, they recommended showering with the water spray on my back, allowing the water to gently stream over the incision site. This has been working well, and my incision looks very good… better than I anticipated. I'm still surprised at the lack of significant pain. Perhaps as the incision heals, and nerves awaken, the pain will come, but so far, I'm pleasantly surprised at the very low level of discomfort. My surgeon and cardiologist both recommend rehab and will provide the referral about 3 weeks post-op. I'm really looking forward to it and will do as many sessions as my insurance allows. I love the idea of exercising under supervision and with monitoring as I regain my strength. That brings up another major positive after the surgery. Prior to surgery, Knowing I had severe MV regurgitation, and was frequently in a-fib, I was frightened that something bad would happen (mainly stroke) before I could get to surgery. I no longer have that fear. Having the issues resolved and being able to have some peace of mind that I am no longer at very high risk of stroke is invaluable,

Happy Thanksgiving! I'll be following your journey. The waiting really is the hardest part. Keep preparing and educating yourself. Knowledge brings some peace of mind in this process. Also know that this is a challenge you will conquer and you WILL be stronger on the other side.

Donna Casaletto  Maryann, where did you have your surgery? I’m from Massachusetts too and having my surgery at Mass General this January 😳

Richard Munson  Wow, i had mine in january at mgh. Maybe you will be in the same room? It has a window, most don’t. 

Donna Casaletto  Richard did they give you a heart pillow? That’s too funny about the one room with the window 😂🤞

Richard Munson  They gave me a nurse to hug so i forgot about the pain. Maybe i was delirious. If you get the bed with the too tall freak extension it was for me. 

Donna Casaletto  You’re hilarious 😂‼️Seriously, I’m thinking of purchasing a pillow on Amazon if MGH doesn’t provide them. I’m only 5”2 so I will not need a bed extension😉‼️

George Gardopee  Susan - Good luck tomorrow. I’m hoping you’ll find that this is not nearly as bad as you anticipated. You are likely only a few short weeks from feeling great again.