Andrea's Profile

Diagnosed with a bicuspid aortic valve in November 2004 (quite by chance when I needed an operation for something else), I had an AVR in January 2005. I opted for a tissue valve as I reasoned that in the 10-15 years that it should be good for, medical science would mean that a redo would be more straightforward. I didn't want to be on warfarin for the rest of my life with a mechanical valve. My valve is now needing to be replaced so I'm wondering if I made the right decision! I saw the surgeon today and am now waiting for a CT Scan prior to surgery in possibly three weeks time. I'm still wobbly from the consultation and having been in this situation 12 years ago I know I'll be fine, but .... anyway, I thought I'd join this forum as it looks as if there's a lot of support out there and maybe I can reciprocate. I see that the majority of you are based in the US but I'm sure that we all have similar experiences and fears.