About Me (In My Own Words)
I had initially posted in my Valve Jourrnal that in Nov 2015 I had under gone minimally invasive mitral valve repair surgery, and a Maze procedure to stop my A Fib.
Unfortunately the repair didn't last, and the Maze didn't stop my A Fib. In addition I had a stroke while I was in recovery from the surgery. This surgery was performed ar UCLA Ronald Reagan Medical Center by Dr. Shemin.
I wasn't sure where I should have the second surgery performed. I met with Dr. Starnes at USC, and again with Dr. Shemin.
I know that some may say I should go to a different surgeon for the second surgery, but for many reasons I am going Back to Dr. Shemin. I don't feel it is in any way his fault that I didn't have better results from the repair, or that I had the stroke. Yes it's unfortunate, but I don't feel there is blame to be laid at anyone's feet. Dr. Shemin spent a full hour with me reviewing my case, past and present. He allowed me the time to ask all of my questions, and he answered them all. He even called several days later to answer more questions. He is a very caring and talented surgeon, and I have every confidence in him. I also thought the nursing staff at UCLA was fantastic. Once they realized that I may have had a stroke, they had staff involved within hours making evaluations and ordering an MRI. They also treated my family wonderfully.
The next surgery will be through the sternum for a tissue valve replacement and a full Maze procedure with the intention to get me off of the Warfarin. I am a healthy individual, and I expect to be released from the hospital I 4-5 days to recover fully at home.
I admit that I initially had a lot of fear going into this next surgery. But I am now looking forward getting it done, feeling better and getting back to life.
Cary
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Oak View
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My surgery date is:
March 19, 2018
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I was diagnosed with:
Mitral Regurgitation
Atrial Fibrillation
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My surgery was:
Mitral Valve Replacement
Maze Procedure
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My surgeon is:
Dr. Dr. Richard Shemin
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My hospital is:
UCLA Ronald Reagan Medical Center
