My surgery was brief (2 1/2 hrs.), recovery was smooth, but always had a problem with breathing. Today, nearly three months later, I am felling depressed because ...Read more
My surgery was brief (2 1/2 hrs.), recovery was smooth, but always had a problem with breathing. Today, nearly three months later, I am felling depressed because my vocal chords have been damaged, I have great difficulty speaking, and I have a paralyzed diaphragm with partially collapsed lung (due to phrenic nerve damage). These things could be permanent, or could heal within a year. It is the unknown that haunts me, and the quality of life issues that have presented themselves. I did my research, thought I made the best decision, but there is no 100% guarantee with any doctor of hospital. Praying for complete recovery. Gloria A.
Jean Raber I'm really sorry you've had such a time, Gloria. The success stories on here are great, and most peop ... Read more
Jean Raber I'm really sorry you've had such a time, Gloria. The success stories on here are great, and most people seem to get better. But the fact remains that these surgeries still pose risks and serious after-effects. Just curious about your general health before you had surgery. You said you had some breathing problems. My mother had a long recovery; had a pace maker a few months after AVR, and it wasn't until then that she really felt the surgery had been worth it. I hope things will improve for you soon.
So sorry, Gloria. There are no guarantees. I hope you continue to heal. Best wishes.
Liz Burroughs I'm so sorry that you're having these problems. I hope you're feeling better soon. I'll also be prayi ... Read more
Liz Burroughs I'm so sorry that you're having these problems. I hope you're feeling better soon. I'll also be praying for your complete recovery.
Bob M I pray that your injuries will be healed and your recovery will become uneventful.
Wanda Mroz I'm so sorry. True nothing is 100%... Human factor is always present. I hope you continue to heal a ... Read more
Wanda Mroz I'm so sorry. True nothing is 100%... Human factor is always present. I hope you continue to heal and improve... Best of luck...
The waits seems to drag on and on. All my pre-op tests are completed, just waiting to get in the car and drive from Beulah to Ann Arbor, and eager to be looking ...Read more
The waits seems to drag on and on. All my pre-op tests are completed, just waiting to get in the car and drive from Beulah to Ann Arbor, and eager to be looking back on the date of surgery.
Liz Burroughs Hi Gloria, Good luck with your surgery! You're in good hands at U of M. They're one of the best! It's ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Hi Gloria, Good luck with your surgery! You're in good hands at U of M. They're one of the best! It's nice to have a fellow Michigander on this site! I live in VA now but I was born & raised in Dearborn and went to grad school at U of M. My parents moved to Cedar & then Traverse City when they retired. It's a beautiful area. I used to love eating breakfast at the Brookside Inn in Beulah! Your surgery date will be here before you know it & then you'll be on your way to recovery. Take care. Liz
Gloria Amstutz Wish I could give a totally positive report, but today I am depressed and dealing with complications ... Read more
Gloria Amstutz Wish I could give a totally positive report, but today I am depressed and dealing with complications which have affected my breathing and voice. Heart valve is working well, and Maze procedure was positive.
