David's Journal

Do most people who have their aortic valves replaced because of severe stenosis also have high cholesterol and CAD? I was born with a bicuspid aortic valve and genetic hyperlipidemia, which attributed to my stenosis progressing more rapidly than others. For example, I have a friend at work the same age as me (56) who was also born with a bicuspid aortic valve, but he only has mild stenosis that they are just monitoring it. I'm happy for him, but also kind of envious.

Is anyone on a vitamin K2 (MK-7) regimen to slow the progression of calcification on your new bioprosthetic valve? Theoretically, this combined with a diet in low calcium might extend the life of the valve. Recent studies suggest that taking MK-7 supplements may help move calcium out of the soft tissues, like the heart and arteries, and into the bones where it belongs. My only concern is that vitamin K2 can increase blood coagulation a bit (not as much as K1 though), so I'm worried that it could increase the risk of blood clots. Your thoughts?

Hi Everyone! I’ve been a subscriber for months and find comfort knowing that I’m not the only person going through this ordeal. I was shocked when I got the news that I had a bicuspid aortic valve with severe stenosis. I chose the bio prosthetic valve for various reasons and felt comfortable with my choice, but I’m 9 months post-op now and everything that could go wrong has: tachycardia (3 weeks out); Dressler’s syndrome (6 weeks out); pericarditis (recurrent, but asymptomatic for now). I just got another echo last week and was shocked to hear that there were already signs of valvular degradation/thickening and pannus formation. Seriously, after only 9 months? I was told these new valves should last 10-12 years.

I did some research and discovered rare cases where pannus can occur in patients with abnormal TGF-B1, and the increased production of these cytokines is implicated in the formation of pannus by inducing exaggerated healing, fibrosis and scar tissue formation. This could be why I’m experiencing recurrent pericarditis too. Has anyone else experienced these types of complications, and what was your course of treatment? I’m really depressed how this has played out for me. Thank you!