About Me (In My Own Words)
I was diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis (bicuspid) over two years ago. I am now 69. I was mostly asymptomatic (just fatigue), but as my numbers on the echocardiograms got worse, I became convinced of the need to have my valve replaced sooner rather than waiting for more symptoms. I consulted with doctors from Mayo Clinic, Northwestern and in Indiana, but ended up choosing a nearby hospital and cardiac interventionist for a TAVR procedure.
One thing that surprised me post-TAVR was the location of the insertion point and the extent of the bruising. I urge those who are going to have TAVR to have their doctors show them exactly where the incision will be and where the bruises will be.
I ended up coming out of the procedure with a temporary pacemaker. The wires came out of my neck. I was told to lie flat and not turn to my right, not even my head. That made for an uncomfortable night with awful back pain.
I had some atrial flutter and fibrillation and was prescribed intravenous amniodarone to cause a chemical cardioversion. The fibrillation continued until my wife started to gently rub my chest. At that moment a normal heart rhythm resumed. She had the magic touch.
Although the atrial flutter and fibrillation never returned after the cardioversion, the electrocardiologist convinced me that I needed a pacemaker. So two days after the TAVR I had a pacemaker implanted. I still have many questions about how the pacemaker works. Unlike the TAVR which I had two plus years to get ready for, the pacemaker was a surprise. I knew there was a good chance that I would get a pacemaker, but I had done no research on that. For those waiting for TAVR or surgery, I encourage learning about this.
I am now in cardiac rehab. I feel fine, but am frustrated that I have to go slow and keep my heart rate in the target zone. Also because of the pacemaker, I am restricted in using my left arm. I expect a full recovery and expect to be out in the woods removing invasive honeysuckle soon.
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Bloomington, IL
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My surgery date is:
October 7, 2025
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I was diagnosed with:
Aortic Stenosis
Bicuspid Aortic Valve
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My surgery was:
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement
Pacemaker Implant
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My hospital is:
Carle Hospital
