About Me (In My Own Words)
59 at the time of diagnosis. Was active and made healthy life decisions in order to avoid heart disease my mother suffered with. My PCP heard a new murmur 1/2022. I also had an abnormal EKG. Referred to a cardiologist and diagnosed w/ severe mitral valve regurgitation, mild/mod aortic valve regurgitation and aortic root dilation 4.5 cm on echo. Had robotic assisted minimally invasive mitral valve repair 5/2022 in Atlanta. Discharged 3 days after the MVR and readmitted a few days later w/ AFIB/tachycardia. Struggled w/ recovery and mild chest pain. Eventually diagnosed w/ post pericardiotomy syndrome/ pericarditis. Just unlucky. EF dropped from 45 post op to 35 eight wks. later. (Was 50 pre MVR) Found a new cardiologist who was a better fit for me and got me on the road to recovery. EF increased to 50-55 9 mos after surgery. Mitral valve repair is doing great.
I wish I had found this community prior to surgery. I have learned so much from the educational resources and folks on this board. Humbling to read what others have experienced. There is definitely a collective strength in this group.
8/2023 Went into what was thought to be atrial flutter. Converted after few wks w/ arrythmia med. Unsuccessful ablation 10/2023, but mapping showed atrial tachycardia instead of flutter so no more Eliquis.
Gated chest CT 8/2023 showed increased aortic root dilation. Met w/ home hospital aortic surgeon. Three other opinions including Cleveland Clinic. Fortunately offered a surgery opening January 2024 w/ Dr. Roselli. Will undergo aortic aneurysm repair- David procedure (aortic valve sparing) vs Bentall procedure (aortic valve replaced as well w/ tissue valve).
2/15/24 A little over 3 wks since aortic root aneurysm and ascending aorta repair via sternotomy at Cleveland Clinic in OH. Fortunately, Dr. Roselli was able to save my aortic valve. Discharged on day 11 after some minor arrythmia issues. Temporary pacemaker pulled on day 3. Received excellent care at CC, especially on step down unit. I got four opinions total for this surgery. Only one for my first OHS. Highly recommend getting a total of two or three opinions after diagnosis.
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
GA
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My surgery date is:
January 23, 2024
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I was diagnosed with:
Aortic Regurgitation
Mitral Regurgitation
Aortic Aneurysm
Atrial Fibrillation
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My surgery was:
Aortic Valve Repair
Aortic Aneurysm Replacement
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My hospital is:
Cleveland Clinic
