Anna's Journal

I couldn’t attend the Dr. Gillinov mitral valve webinar last night due to another commitment. If anyone attended this, was there any mention if it will be available to view on line at some point?

So I just had my first surgical consult yesterday with U of M, and after 3 weeks of anticipation, I was very surprised when I was told that neither my aortic or mitral was in a severe regurgitation state, and that I would NOT need surgery, not yet anyway!!!!

While I am more than elated, I am perplexed as well. How can his interpretation of the TEE be so different than that of my cardiologist? He still wants me to have a stress echo due to the mild shortness of breath I have with exertion. I imagine I will continue to be monitored closely for any changes. Has anyone else had this happen? Where you’re told you need surgery, then you get another opinion that says no? 

Now I’m not even sure I need to have the TEE repeated at CC?  The U of M doc says it likely will show the same thing, so it may be a waste. The cardiologist at CC that I met with in May (for cardiomyopathy Dx) said he and another Dr viewed the TEE images and also saw only moderate regurgitation; but because the TEE wasn’t a 3d (bio plane) study, they want me to repeat it there, before they even recommend a consultation with one of their surgeons. It is my understanding CC likes to do their own testing. 
 

Getting ready for my first surgical consultation next week on 8/20, which will be at the University of Michigan. Have all my tests, picked up all of my disks, and have a list of questions. Cleveland Clinic wants to do a repeat TEE which is scheduled for 9/24. I know many of you traveled for your surgeries, and I am willing too but I struggle with wanting to be closer to home as I know it will be hard on my husband.  How has distance weighed in your decision? I suppose I need to go with where I feel most comfortable.

Has anyone had to repeat any diagnostic testing, especially if you decide to have surgery at another facility? My TEE was done a couple weeks ago and my husband was told (I was still groggy from anesthesia) that both my aortic and mitral valves have severe regurgitation and I need an aortic replacement and mitral repair. I sent the disk to CC Drs who see the valves as only moderate but they  suggest I repeat the test there due to poor image quality and limited study. 

I’ve had 2 CTAs that show no CAD and no blockages. Is a heart cath always required before heart valve surgery? I am terrified of this and they always have a hard time finding good veins on me to get blood or do IVs. Also I know someone who passed away of complications.

Just joined this group, which looks likes an incredible community of support. Wondering if there’s anyone out there that’s has had dual valve surgery of aortic valve replacement and mitral valve repair?