Dr. Bavaria was my surgeon. If you have any questions just let me know, I'm a journal member.
Elaine
Steven Kantor Elaine,
Thank you so much. I'm supposed to see him for the first time on April 3rd. I guess the obv ... Read more
Steven Kantor Elaine,
Thank you so much. I'm supposed to see him for the first time on April 3rd. I guess the obvious one is did you like him? Is there something I should know about him. One thing I want to make sure is if I decide to have him do my procedure, and he probably will, since HUP is a teaching hospital I just want to make sure he does the procedure and not a med student.
Thanks!
Steve
On March 18, 2012...
My surgeon and cardiologist both recommended the St. Jude's mechanical valve for me. They both said there wasn't enough data on the On-X valve in the Mitral Valve position. I felt there was less risk with the St. Jude's valve as well.
Jamie McGuire
Steven Kantor Was it the Regent?
Again, thank you!
Steve
On March 17, 2012...
Hi Steve,
I spoke with my surgeon in detail about what mechanical valve to use. He does about 100 aortic valves per year. he said that he has implanted the on-X valves in the past but they are harder to do and he won't do it without a full sternotomy. He prefers the st judes valve for a few good reasons, one they have a long history with a good track record, and they cause less trauma to the patient. He also told me that there is still a risk of clots forming around the sewing ring of the on-X. After considering all the pro's and con's of tissue and mechanical valves I chose the st judes. I hope that all goes well for you..
Bill Fairbanks
Steven Kantor That's fantastic feedback. Thank you so much.
Bill, when did you have your procedure?
Your friend is right. You are not selecting him for a personality test. The main questions are how many has he done and how many has he lost in the last 5 years. If he can't answer that keep looking. You have to be very comfortable with him. For the moment he has to be your best friend. Good luck
For the long haul
Linda H
On March 17, 2012...
You want both, personality and genius, meet with Dr. Stelzer at Mt. Sinai. He is an amazing man. My husband, Chris Dixon, just had his surgery on 2/27. Check out his journal and what he has to say about Dr. Stelzer. My opinion is that it is essential that you feel like you can ask questions and you will get an answer.
Best of luck to you!
Niki
On March 17, 2012...
Steve. I too had desired a warm fuzzy dr. Alas alack iI realized I wasn't gonna date him. So settled for the best
You really ( no one does) have anything to do w thevsurgeon after wards in most cases. You're history & they on to the. Next case
Get the best - you won't be sorry. Good luck
Hi its Jane again,
I believe that the blood flow to the brain is never interrupted for heart surgery. the by-pass machine is for the blood flow to the heart .
Even when brain surgery is done, there is still minimal blood flow to the brain.
You should not have to be involved in that. Think about a New York Hospital like Columbia, Cornell, Mt. Sinai or Cleveland Clinic they are tried and true and would never have a questionable surgeon affiliated.
Steven Kantor Thanks Jane!
I'm actually most likely going to have my procedure done at The Hospital of University o ... Read more
Steven Kantor Thanks Jane!
I'm actually most likely going to have my procedure done at The Hospital of University of Pennsylvania. HUP is well respected and highly ranked for their cardiology department. I really appreciate your input and agree it's only logical to have this type of procedure done at the most well respected hospitals.
Thanks,
Steve
On March 17, 2012...
Hi Steven,
I had mitral valve repair done 12/5/11. I was on Coumadin for a month or so. I was told that if I stayed on it for A-fib, I would be switched to the new drug that did not require testing levels. It is on the market and available. As far as your surgeon choice, I was sent to Dr.Smith at Columbia Hosp. Due to his reputation and track record, I never had one moments doubt about his ability. He is a professional, gentlemanly, classy guy that answered any questions I had. I did have to make my own choice of valve, if that was to be needed. You should not have to have one moment of concern about your surgeon. There are enough things that we foolishly worry about.
I felt that If Clinton, Barbara Walters, David Letterman, Mayor Koch and many others choice my surgeon and they could go to anyone in the world and my cardiologist referred me to him anyway, then why not. By the way Dr. Oz is from the same practice.
Check Dr. Craig Smith out on this site.
Jane
Steven Kantor Jane,
I'm curious what is the new drug?
On March 16, 2012...
I am 4 months post opt from Mitral Valve replacement. My first surgery was in 1993 when I was 17 years old, I choose a tissue valve. It lasted for 18 1/2 years, but I would say the last 5 or 6 years of that time while it was deteriorating I didn't feel well. But I think the tissue valves are better preserved now vs. how they were in the early 90's so yours could last even longer than that.
In November I had surgery again and this time I choose to have the mechanical valve as I didn't want to do a 3rd surgery. I am 36 years old. Choosing the type of valve is probably one of the hardest parts of this process and only you can decide what is best for you, but I agree with what Chuck said below, do not let the Coumadin scare you. Sure it is a pain to get my INR tested every month, but not a bigger pain then the interruption of another surgery. Also, I can hear my valve clicking, it sounds like a small wrist watch, over time it's beginning to fade. The sound is not an unbearable sound either, I kind of like it. It reminds me of everything that I have been through.
When making your decision just think that the doctors will work with you to adjust your Coumadin levels to your lifestyle. You do not need to adjust your life to the Coumadin. You just have to be a little bit more aware of everything that you’re doing and everything that you put in your body. My experience with Coumadin so far has not been as scary as some people might think and I have not changed my lifestyle at all. Both of my doctors said that I could run a marathon if I wanted to. I have also heard that they are working on getting a new drug approved that isn’t so hard on the body. Hopefully that comes out in the next couple of years. Anyway, Good luck with your decisions. If you have any questions regarding the mechanical valve, tissue valve or the Coumadin, I’m more than happy to help!
Jamie McGuire
Steven Kantor Jamie,
Great feedback. I'm so glad you've done well and I sincerely appreciate your comments. This i ... Read more
Steven Kantor Jamie,
Great feedback. I'm so glad you've done well and I sincerely appreciate your comments. This is all so valuable.
Thank you.
On March 16, 2012...
Hey Steve,
Did you meet with Dr Baveria yet? As soon as you meet him you will know the answers to your questions. He will be upfront and honest with you. He is the best at what he does. keep me posted.
Sean M
Steven Kantor Sean,
If this isn't too much of an imposing request would you forward your personal email? Mine is c ... Read more
Steven Kantor Sean,
If this isn't too much of an imposing request would you forward your personal email? Mine is contactstevek@yahoo.com. I just have several thoughts/comments.
Again, thanks so much!
On March 15, 2012...
Steve,
I you're asking the right questions. Make sure you keep doing that as you are your best advocate.
Regarding coumadin, my father was on it for a short time (he was misdiagnosed), I talked with others that are on it, and I've read articles from a number of more - some in Adam's book.
The overwhelming theme I've gotten from them is: Don't let the fear of coumadin be your decision maker. So I took that to heart (pun intended).
What I've seen is that the people who are active before coumadin remain active after coumadin. I've been on a slow down hill path with my valve performance for the past 15 or so years. Over the last year, it has changed significantly and I'm exhausted most of the time.
My choice is mechanical because I want the best chance of having this done once. I want to do the things I've been slowly stepping away from over the past 15 years. I may beef up my first aid kit a little :) But I will not fear the coumadin.
As far as driving, I live in the Atlanta Metro area and drive on 400 every day. That's one of the riskiest things I've ever done. I'll continue to trust in my abilities to avoid those that are eating, reading the paper, texting, putting on make-up, talking on the phone, or doing who knows what else.
I'm about to survive and THRIVE after major open heart surgery. After that, coumadin will be a breeze!!
As a side benefit, if I tick loudly enough after I get the mechanical valve, I might get some entertainment with TSA at the airport. Could you imagine if they heard me Ticking?!? I crack up just thinking about it!
Chuck Holmgreen
3/20
On March 14, 2012...
Steve,
This is a highly personal decision. That makes it easier, doesn't it (yes, I'm kidding). I went through the same decision as has everyone on this list.
In my research, in general, the people that go mechanical will tell you not to fear coumadin and not to make that your reason for not choosing mechanical. In general, those that choose biological valves at relatively younger ages (I include you in that as I'm close to you) say they don't want to deal with coumadin and would rather have a second surgery.
The smallest percentage choose to go Ross. According to Jeff's research, it can be expected to give you back a normally expected life span with no coumadin and potentially no re-surgeries.
So with that, you'll have to weigh the pros & cons of mechanical/coumadin; biological with the virtual certianty of at least one re-surgery potentially through a catheter; Ross with potentially a normal life span versus a much more complicated surgery and the risks of a longer time on the bypass machine.
I'd love to give you the "right" decision, but I can't because I'm not you. Mitch chose biological, Jeff chose Ross, and I'm going mechanical. We all went with what we were most comfortable with.
As I believe Mitch said, do your research and make a decision. Once your decision is made, you will feel better. And I wish you peace in your decision.
Chuck Holmgreen
3/20
Steven Kantor Chuck,
You are a special person. Thank you.
Just curious how you got over the coumadin concerns. ... Read more
Steven Kantor Chuck,
You are a special person. Thank you.
Just curious how you got over the coumadin concerns. I struggle with the fear of the unexpected traffic accident or getting hit with a ball playing. I'm certain you stirred over all of this but just curious, if you don't mind, a little deeper feedback.
Thanks!
Steve
On March 14, 2012...
Hi Steve, Decisions are hard to make espically when everyone has their favorite for whatever reason. I will tell you my daughter three years ago March 2nd had a valve replacement. She at the time talked it over with me and we both agreed the mechanical valve would be the best for her cause of her age of 29. But it also made her have to take coumadin for the rest of her life. She is doing fine but always has to go for INR checks. Has a hard time with keeping blood regulated. I say its because of 3 kids and a lot of stress. Now on the other side I have heard here on HVJ that there is something new coming on the horizons. It might be if that would ever have to be replaced you might not need surgery like this again but it is thru a catather. The good thing is you have a lot of time to think about what is good for you. Hope I kinda helped in a way. Good luck
For the long haul
LInda H
On March 14, 2012...
If you really want to get your head spinning, I will hook you up with my surgeon in NYC. He does more root repairs than anyone in the country. Just say the word.
- Mitch Friedman
On March 14, 2012...
Hey Steve, hang tough!!!! Continue to do your research and know in time, the right decision for you will come to you. I know it is hard right now, but try to be patient and weigh all the options. The right decision is the one that you feel most comfortable with. If you are thinking surgery in May, you have plenty of time to research and decide.
Talk to you soon.
-Mitch Friedman
Steven Kantor Mitch,
You're the best. Thanks.
Man I was just shocked when the surgeon said mechanical. He was lik ... Read more
Steven Kantor Mitch,
You're the best. Thanks.
Man I was just shocked when the surgeon said mechanical. He was like why bother risking another surgery. However, as I said in my jounal entry, the nurse in charge of the whole program was completely pushing tissue.
Surgeon said he can't promise I wont need a valve after 7-8 years. Man....this was not what I expected. The "big doctor" that operates on the aorta is going to see me in a couple more weeks. I'll get his opinion of course. As you say, I'll just continue gathering information and decide. Just to put this in perspective, I've taken weeks to pick paint color in my house!
Thanks so much -
Steve
On March 14, 2012...
Steven; Nancy here; 5 weeks post op. the valve decision was the hardest for most of us. weigh the pros and cons. it's a decison ONLY YOU can make. no one will even want to help you with it, sadly.
My lifestyle, traveling, speaking, yada yada; didn't lend to Mech. with the cudamin. Plus I didn't want to hear it "TICK" TICK".
and a re op - while likely is WAY OFF in the future... it most probably will be done transcaathater. via the wrist.
And I don't even play a Dr on TV.
bottom line is; the surgeon and the valve are big decisions..depending on life style. invest in time learning about them so you're comfy.
We have cousins by Kantor in your area..tho I doubt we are releated. just such a small world.
know tho, you will make the right decision for you. good luck..
Nancy Friedman, St Louis 2 9 12 "DONE"
On March 13, 2012...
Good luck tomorrow.. Just remember when you decided what type of valve you want remember the pros and cons of each. You will make the right decision.
Sean Murphy
On March 13, 2012...
Steven, HUP is awesome, Dr. Joyce Wald (Cardiologist), and Dr. Joseph Woo (Surgeon0, and Dr. Hutchinson (Pacer/Defib) have me feeling like a new person just a little over 5 months since surgery. Not sure who you will be seeing but I am sure they are all excellent doctors if the are at HUP. If you get biological valve the meds are easier, Dr. Woo used pig for me. Feel free to email me if you have any other questions I may be able to answer. Elizabeth edelfranco@comcast.net
Steven Kantor Elizabeth,
Do you mind me asking your age? I just left my apointment with Dr. Acker and he said at m ... Read more
Steven Kantor Elizabeth,
Do you mind me asking your age? I just left my apointment with Dr. Acker and he said at my age, 45, he would go with mechanical. Ughh! I was hoping to not hear that I think.
Thanks
Steve
On March 13, 2012...
Hi Steven - I had my surgery on 2/20. I am 38 years old. My cardiologist was mechanical. My surgeon leaned toward tissue. My surgeon told me with the new treated tissue valve that I could expect it to last 15 to 20 years.
This was a decision I would go back and forth on until Friday before the surgery my surgeon called to ask what we were doing and I said tissue. No regrets. I know I will need to do this again in 20 years but it shouldn't be via open hert surgery.
I really in the end didn't want to deal with Coumadin. Plus I wanted to be able to wrestle around with boys ( 5,3,19mos).
I am doing well 3 weeks post op. My surgey only took 2.5 hrs. I was in the ICU less than 24 hrs.
Any questions let me know. Jimmyjohnson26@gmail.com
Steven Kantor That's so great! Thank you for sharing!
Steve
Steven Kantor Did you have any issues with your aorta only the valve?
Again, thanks!
On March 12, 2012...
Hey Steve. Dropping weight before surgery. Just don't go below normal weight. Low body weight is a well-documented risk factor. Folks who have low body weight may improve odds by putting on a few pounds. I was kind of skinny and I put 5 pounds on the last few weeks before surgery as a buffer. -- DVB
On March 12, 2012...
Yes my friend, getting into as good a shape as possible pre surgery will help you in your recovery. I think when you meet with your surgeon, you will find he will badly do whatever you want him to do. He will give you things to consider and then ask you to tell him your decisions. At least that is what a top surgeon will do. Good luck, speak soon.
-Mitch Friedman
On March 12, 2012...
Hi Steve Your doctor is right. I was over weight and my cardio doctor told me to loose weight eat fresh fruit and vegetables and walk 2 miles a day even in the rain. So thanks to Dr.Oz I joined transformation nation and Weight Watchers. I am happy to say that I have lost 24 pounds and 43 since I moved south in 2009. It has made me feel a lot better about myself. The doctor said it would help in my recovery. I wasnt even allowed to walk the dog or join a fitness center to help. He said to much stress on my heart. So it doesnt hurt to walk. It will help. Until later.
For the long haul
Linda H
On March 10, 2012...
Glad they actually caught the rhythm on paper! Now they know what it is!! I had a electrical problem also...different than yours I think. I had atrial fibrulation and they did a MAZE procedure on me 30 minutes before they did my valve. Same surgery. Although they think it was quite successful, we won't know for 6 months if it worked. Good luck Steve...lots of HVJ friends will be praying for you. Jamie Todor
On March 10, 2012...
Hey Steve, sorry to hear that happened to you with the racing heart. Did they tell you what it was, my son was diagnosed this summer with Wollf Parkison White Syndrome, he will be going in this summer for an ablation, he has only had one bad episode but the doctors feel that is enough to just fix it.
Good luck to you,
Cindy Pastrano
Steven Kantor Cindy,
Thanks for your note and good luck to your son. They haven't told me a diagnosis but they did ... Read more
Steven Kantor Cindy,
Thanks for your note and good luck to your son. They haven't told me a diagnosis but they did say I would lik ely get an ablation procedure (not sure that's the proper way to say it) too. My cardiologist also seemed to feel this was a "simple" fix. I'm just so thankful they FINALLY found out what seems to be going on. It's a little scary when your heart suddenly races.
Thanks again Cindy!
Steve
On March 9, 2012...
Steven,
I am so glad that your cath went well. I am new to your blog and trying to catch up a bit. The decision is so hard and want to lend support to you. I am not sure that you have come to one yet. I feel for you. I am a Stelzer Ross pt and had my surgery 4 years ago. I have a 5 and 8 year old. I didn't want to face another surgery when they were teens so I chose the Ross. My baby was 15 months old at the time. It was a very very hard decision but for me. Mechanical was just not an option. Since my surgery I have seen so many people on these support pages who are unaffected by the anticoagulation tx. I am happy to see that but it was still never in my thoughts. Anyway, I am thrilled with my choice and once it was made my anxiety level dropped dramatically. If you are considering the Ross, Dr Stelzer is the only doc i would let do it and you live 2 hours away so it's a no brainer. Min invasive at Morristown Medical is great. Dr Brown. Not sure if they are talking min invasive at HUP, but assume they are...if not come up north for a consult with Brown.
Best of luck with this decision...heart hugs and support.
Elizabeth Devaney
Also, happy to talk if you want more info
On March 8, 2012...
Steve,
I think that thanks to my heavy drinking and drug use the valve lasted so long. Nah - just kidding! Truthfully I have no idea. Is there any research on this topic? That might be a good question for the larger group.
I am just your average suburban Dad - 2 kids, wife, dog etc. Not particularly in shape, a little overweight, diet OK but not exceptionally good. My cardiologist had put me on a statin drug for a few years because there was some research that those could extend the life of these valves. But then I had a bad reaction to the drug and he subsequently told me that the research did not pan out. So I've been off it for a few years.
Again, wishing you the best outcome whichever path you choose.
Robert Tucker
On March 8, 2012...
Steven,
Glad all went well with your cath...keep me posted
Sean Murphy
On March 7, 2012...
Good luck with that periodic fear factor! I feel your pain!!
Linda Dixon
On March 7, 2012...
So glad the cath went well. Glad you are meeting a surgeon. As I said, call me anytime. In the meantime, all of us "valvers" are here for you on HVJ. Keep plugging along, get smart and that will make you ready.
Talk soon,
- Mitch Friedman
On March 5, 2012...
Hi Steven,
Good luck to you. Let me give you my experience. I was only 33 when I had my bicuspid aortic valve replaced. I chose a bovine tissue valve even though they told me at the time that the life of it would be 8-10 years. I did not want to deal with coumadin. I was a young single active guy. I also figured that if I waited some new technology would come along.
Well the valve actually lasted almost 21 years and I will have a new one put it on April 3rd. I will choose tissue again. For a long time my cardiologist was adamant that I get a mechanical valve the next time around but even he agrees that I handled the tissue one so well it is a good decision. Plus new technology is finally here! Most likely if I need another in 20 years it can be done via a catheter.
Remember that even though managing coumadin has become much easier you are still anti-coagulated. There is a daily bleeding risk even if low. I figured that if I was going to take a risk I would rather it be with a skilled surgeon once every 20 years for 5 hours rather than daily and random.
Also, think about other illnesses you might get in the future. Coumadin interacts with many drugs and if you ever need surgery for something else it is a complicating factor.
Anyway, if I can answer any questions please feel free to contact me. I wish you only the best whatever your choices are.
Robert Tucker
Steven Kantor Thanks Robert!
Wow...21 years is amazing.
Since you're going with a tissue valve again what brand/man ... Read more
Steven Kantor Thanks Robert!
Wow...21 years is amazing.
Since you're going with a tissue valve again what brand/manufacturer? Can they do it using a minimally invasive procedure?
Good luck and thank you so much.
Steve
Steven Kantor Robert,
Is there anything you think you did to give you the amazing 21 years with the tissue valve? ... Read more
Steven Kantor Robert,
Is there anything you think you did to give you the amazing 21 years with the tissue valve? Did you limit exercise, certain foods/alcohol, etc?
I'd appreciate knowing your thoughts on this.
Thanks
Steve
On March 5, 2012...
Hey Steven,
I still do all my activities that I did before, bike riding with a helmet is the only difference. lol. When I meet with Doc B he ran all the test and said you need this done ASAP. 3 weeks later I was in surgery. He told my wife that when he saw the valve it was so bad that I had less then 3 months left on it. Scary ... I went to this appointment with knowing I wanted a mechanical, and he told me that because of my age that it was the way to go. Tissue valves can last. But the problem is when you are younger (under 55-60) you still can put alot of stress on that valve. You will not want the surgery twice..lol The only thing I can tell you is if you can controll your INR while on the bloodthinner you will be fine. I do not regret anything about my experience. I am happy and healthy and doing things I never could. I have a 10 , 7 and 2 year old . Life is busy and the bloodthinners are never a thought. Keep me posted.. Good Luck
Sean
Steven Kantor Thanks Sean. I'm so happy to hear your feedback. Clearly, I'm happy to know another guys with young k ... Read more
Steven Kantor Thanks Sean. I'm so happy to hear your feedback. Clearly, I'm happy to know another guys with young kids is doing well. My daughter has been really curious so I've been talking to her about this process. She's 10 years old. I've been her soccer coach for 4 + years and retired this year! So happy about that. The decision was unrelated to my heart.
I have the cath on Wed and then I'm supposed to see Dr. Hargrove at HUP. He's the 3rd of the 3 surgeons I plan on meeting with. It may be overkill but I'm doing my best to figure this out. Again, thanks so much.
Steve
Steven Kantor Sean,
Sorry but which mechanical valve did you get?
Thanks
Steve
On March 5, 2012...
Hey Steven, glad to here you are part of HVJ friends. I had surgery on Feb.6th and I am doing great. I had the same problem that you currently have. My valve was replaced with an On-X Life mechanical valve. It is a life changing experience having to be on blood thinner medication. Currently there is a study being allowed by the FDA for people who have this valve. They are checking to see if blood thinner medication is needed. I think the website is On-X Life Technologies. You also maybe a candidate for home testing for your blood thinning medication. I am waiting for mine to be processed. What ever decision is made, it will be the right one for you. Prayers are with you. Take care.
Robert Hartner
On March 4, 2012...
OK Steve, good luck. If your aorta is at 4.6 that will get replaced too. Join the club. Note that with the Ross, you want only someone who has ALOT of experience with it, doing it. Not some surgeon who has done "some". Stelzer has done more than anyone else in the world presently.
Jeff
On March 4, 2012...
Hi Steven,
Welcome to the site. I am 11 days away from a mitral valve replacement. Linda Dixon and I will be meeting at Cleveland Clinic. I would never have known about her if it wasent for this site. We will be having our procedures 2 days apart.
You will find so much information here. Just ask anything! You'll get truthful answers and such positive support.
Good luck on your journey. We'll all be with you. Stephanie Cole
Steven Kantor Thank you so much Stephanie.
Good luck. I will be looking for your updates.
Steve
On March 4, 2012...
Steven,
The answer to my question at the time was mechanical. It is the way to go. The bloodthiners are not bad. I really did not want to go through the surgery a second time. I am doing great. At 45 you still have a long life ahead of you. You are in great hands at HUP.
Sean
Steven Kantor Sean,
I'm glad to hear the bloodthinners are not too bad.
Did Dr. Bavaria suggest mechanical was be ... Read more
Steven Kantor Sean,
I'm glad to hear the bloodthinners are not too bad.
Did Dr. Bavaria suggest mechanical was better or truly leave it up to you? Did you seek any other opinions at the time and did they offer the same opinion as Bavaria?
Again, thank you!
Steven Kantor Sean,
I'm also curious about how being on bloodthinners have limited your activity? I'm really conce ... Read more
Steven Kantor Sean,
I'm also curious about how being on bloodthinners have limited your activity? I'm really concerned about being constantly in fear of getting bruised whether it be during cycling or just wrestling around with my daughter (10 years old) and other friends.
Steve
On March 4, 2012...
Steven,
We have the same condition and same age. Did you get your ascending aorta checked for dilation/aneurysm? Mine is 4.7cm and needs to be replaced too. I am sure that will be looked at too. Common with bicuspid valve. I am leaving tomorrow for NY for mu surgery Wed. I am getting a Ross Procedure with Dr. Stelzer. Chris Dixon and I have done a massive amount of research on this. Your docs will likely discourage you from this but you need to look at this option as well. Chris and I can give you lots of info (can send you emails etc). Let me know how we can help, we just went through all of this. Chris is in Mt. Sinai recovering and I am right behind him. Best of luck to you and if I can be of help let me know.
Jeff Shebovsky, Orlando, FL
Steven Kantor Thanks so much Jeff. I haven't heard about the aorta yet only that it is 4.6.
Steven Kantor Thanks so much Jeff. I haven't heard about the aorta yet only that it is 4.6.
Dr. Stelzer emailed me today. He seems great. I may have trouble due to my insurance plan limits me to the region. U of Penn is a great hospital and ranked very well so I"m not that concerned. However, I don't think there is anyone doing many Ross procedures there. There is a doctor in the region and I"m reaching out to him in the morning.
THanks so much Jeff.
Steve
Steven Kantor Thanks so much Jeff. I haven't heard about the aorta yet only that it is 4.6.
Steven Kantor Thanks so much Jeff. I haven't heard about the aorta yet only that it is 4.6.
Dr. Stelzer emailed me today. He seems great. I may have trouble due to my insurance plan limits me to the region. U of Penn is a great hospital and ranked very well so I"m not that concerned. However, I don't think there is anyone doing many Ross procedures there. There is a doctor in the region and I"m reaching out to him in the morning.
THanks so much Jeff.
Steve
Steven Kantor Jeff,
Just anxious to hear how you're doing. I hope the procedure went well
On March 4, 2012...
Aren't you the diplomatic one? You must be a politician,lol :-)
Linda Dixon
On March 4, 2012...
Hey Steven, good luck with the biological vs mechanical decision. I'm only 9 days from surgery and I still don't know what I will have. Everyone has the same questions to ponder, do I want to be on blood thinner and probably never have to have surgery again OR is the blood thinner too much of an issue even if it means having to have surgery again. As I said, I haven't "had the discussion" with my surgeon yet, but I get the feeling he leans more toward the biological valve believing that by the time it would need to be replaced the percutaneous transcatheter method will be perfected and available to everyone. So...I will let you know what my surgeon says, although I am a good bit older than you (63) I am sort of on the borderline between too young and too old, lol.
Good luck brother!
Linda Dixon
Steven Kantor Linda,
Thank you! I look forward to your updates on this site post procedure and to finding out whic ... Read more
Steven Kantor Linda,
Thank you! I look forward to your updates on this site post procedure and to finding out which direction you opted for the bio v mechanical. If bio I'd also be curious as to which one.
Good luck "too young"!
Steve
Steven Kantor Hey "too yound",
Are you any closer to your decision?
Steve
On March 4, 2012...
Steven,
Glad you're here but I honestly wish you didn't need to be.
I've found that there is no good way to tell people what is going on. No matter how you try to ease into it, you will get the same SHOCKED response. I quit trying to be gentle and just told people in straight up conversation.
Keep reading and keep asking.
Chuck Holmgreen
AVR 3/20
On March 4, 2012...
Hi Steven,
My name is Sean Murphy. I had my aortic Valve replaced almost 2 years ago. I had a wonderful doctor at HUP. Dr. Joseph Bavaria. The best doc in Phila. He was named one of the best doc in the USA. He is the reason why I am here today. Let me know if you have any questions.
Sean
Steven Kantor Sean,
Wow, this website is amazing. I have an apointment with Dr. Bavaria in a few weeks (earliest ... Read more
Steven Kantor Sean,
Wow, this website is amazing. I have an apointment with Dr. Bavaria in a few weeks (earliest I could see him). I'm also meeting with Dr. Acker at HUP.
Do you mind telling me if you elected for biologic or mechanical?
I'm 45 and anticipating this is going to be one of my big questions to answer.
Again, thank you so much Sean.
Steve
On March 4, 2012...
Yeah, keep leaning on this community for answers, I love it! Chris and Jeff, mention in your first post by Linda, are the two that decided to go Ross with Stelzer.
Your first stop should be to check out the surgeon your cardiologist recommends. However, that should not be your last stop, even if you love the guy. Get other opinions (at least one) and then decide.
Good luck!
-Mitch Friedman
On March 4, 2012...
P. S. Steven, also you can check the US NEWS and WORLD REPORT hospital rankings. They also rank the surgeons based on various factors. It is a national ranking, so maybe you can get some info there. Google US News and World Report hospital rankings and you will find it.
Good luck.
Linda Dixon
Hi Steven, have you tried the Surgeon Locator on this site? I did a search for Pennsylvania and there are 2 surgeons listed in the database. Doesn't mean there aren't more, just that these 2 have been added to the database by a patient. One is in Pittsburgh the other in Philadelphia. Good luck in your search.
Linda Dixon
On March 3, 2012...
Hi Steven,
Have you come across T. Sloan Guy in your research. He's the head of cardiac surgery at Temple.
Adam
On March 3, 2012...
Steven,
consider going to NYC to see Dr Stelzer for a Ross. I am not sure if you are a candidate but you are close and the best in the world. www.ps4ross.com (i think). Just to get info about a ross vs mechanical. My 2 cents and massive heart hugs from someone who has been there.
Sincerely, Elizabeth Devaney
Steven Kantor Thank you so much Elizabeth. I've emailed Dr. Stelzer and hope to connect with him. My cardiologist ... Read more
Steven Kantor Thank you so much Elizabeth. I've emailed Dr. Stelzer and hope to connect with him. My cardiologist is concerned about the Ross as an option but I'd love to learn more. While riskier, it seem like something I must explore.
On March 3, 2012...
Hey Steve, Dont know if this will help or not, but my daughter at age 29 had a valve replacement. She went with St Jude mechanical valve because of her age mostly.But her downfall is, she had to take coumadian for the rest of her life.She is always having to get INR tested and that drives her nuts. On the light side of this is, when she had it done, she could hear herself tick. It kinda bothered her until she got use to it. Now her kids like to check her out. It is a very big decision. Both are good, just talk to people who know, it might help. Good luck to you.
For the long haul
Linda H
On March 3, 2012...
I went tissue valve. When I started, I was set on mechanical because of my relatively young age. Then once I did my research, I changed and went tissue. No right or wrong answer, it is what you feel most comfortable with. Feel free to email me directly at mfspenceny@yahoo.com, if you are interested.
Good luck.
-Mitch Friedman
On March 3, 2012...
Hello Tri-State valve brother! I am 47, 4 weeks post op for AVR and root repair. I live in NYC. Check out my HVJ, I have been told it is helpful.
So glad you found this site and started posting. The people here are amazing. The more you put out there, the more you get in return. I know you are pretty far South, but if you decide to check out surgeons in NYC and if I can be helpful to you, please let me know.
Good luck. The journey is a crazy ride. But, we have all been where you are now. We can help, and above all, you can do this. Even if it feels overwhelming at this moment.
All the best,
-Mitch Friedman
Steven Kantor Thanks so much Mitch. I appreciate it. Just curious if you elected for a biologic or mechanical val ... Read more
Steven Kantor Thanks so much Mitch. I appreciate it. Just curious if you elected for a biologic or mechanical valve?
Dr. Bavaria was my surgeon. If you have any questions just let me know, I'm a journal member.
Elaine
Thank you so much. I'm supposed to see him for the first time on April 3rd. I guess the obv ... Read more
Thank you so much. I'm supposed to see him for the first time on April 3rd. I guess the obvious one is did you like him? Is there something I should know about him. One thing I want to make sure is if I decide to have him do my procedure, and he probably will, since HUP is a teaching hospital I just want to make sure he does the procedure and not a med student.
Thanks!
Steve