Howard Powders - Heart Valve Journal

My Journal

915 days ago

Adam Pick, Howard Powders, Patsy Stewart reacted to this

Thank you Adam Pick for featuring me and my heart health journey in your Mitral Valve Awareness Newsletter! Much appreciated, Howard Powders

Adam Pick Hey Howard, No need to thank me! THANK YOU for sharing your story and picture with me. Your patient... Read more

Adam Pick Hey Howard, No need to thank me! THANK YOU for sharing your story and picture with me. Your patient experience was so appropriate to share with our community as this is "Mitral Valve Awareness Week".

If anybody would like to see Howard's post that went live today, please click https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/heart-surgery-blog/2023/04/11/mitral-valve-stethoscope-patient/.

How A Stethoscope Led to Life-Saving Mitral Valve Surgery

https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/heart-surgery-blog/2023/04/11/mitral-valve-stethoscope-patient/

Learn how a stethoscope saved the life of Howard Powers, a severe mitral valve regurgitation patient from Florida.

Howard Powdersposted an update

1060 days ago

Brady Busch reacted to this

Hi folks! Still healing. Pulse rate today is 77. A welcome new low since minimally invasive mitral valve repair 19 weeks ago. Post op surgeon’s visit, 5 weeks ...Read more

Hi folks! Still healing. Pulse rate today is 77. A welcome new low since minimally invasive mitral valve repair 19 weeks ago. Post op surgeon’s visit, 5 weeks after surgery, pulse was 99. A long slow decrease to acceptable healing normality. My new low pulse rate proves my body is still healing. Cleveland Clinic says it can take up to a year. I believe it! Hope y’all good folks are all doing well! Have a Happy Thanksgiving! (The “77” will make it a happy one for me!) 🙂

Mohammed Abdulrahman What was pulse rate before surgery?

Rose Madura Glad to hear you are making progress Howard! I'd say a year is about right before you feel totally b ... Read more

Rose Madura Glad to hear you are making progress Howard! I'd say a year is about right before you feel totally better. You are doing great 👍

Richard Munson Pulse rate or age?

Klara Čičić Good to hear from you, fellow MVR generation of '22 :) I hope you continue to heal and enjoy life!

Angela Meletiadis Howard, I really love your attitude. It speaks of patience and optimism. It's good for me to read all ... Read more

Angela Meletiadis Howard, I really love your attitude. It speaks of patience and optimism. It's good for me to read all this because I had the same surgery just three days before you, in Thessaloniki. I've got my sights on the year mark for complete healing and if it happens any earlier, I'll be thrilled!Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Ana Brusso Hello Howard, so glad to hear your good news. Happy Thanksgiving to you too. God bless you dear frien ... Read more

Ana Brusso Hello Howard, so glad to hear your good news. Happy Thanksgiving to you too. God bless you dear friend 🍁🦃

Greg Lewis Good for you, Howard!! As long as you are progressing, it doesnt matter how long it takes. It will be ... Read more

Greg Lewis Good for you, Howard!! As long as you are progressing, it doesnt matter how long it takes. It will be done, when its done. I worked with a guy once who loved saying " you do what you can do, and the rest, is overtime" 😂 ok, may not apply here...but i like it! Lol 😂😶‍🌫️

Deena Z Progress, Howard. It does take a year. It actually took me 14 months to stop being tired at 8:30pm a ... Read more

Deena Z Progress, Howard. It does take a year. It actually took me 14 months to stop being tired at 8:30pm at night and to get my pulse down fully. It's a great feeling to know the hardest part is over and all went well.

Howard Powders Hey Mohammed. It was mid 60’s.

Howard Powders Hello Richard. Ironically, both!! But now it’s down to 76. The pulse, not the age!😂

Howard Powders Thank you Rose! You inspire me!🙂🙂🙂

Howard Powders Thank you Klara. Hope YOU are doing well!! 🙂Neither of our surgeons want anything to do with us an ... Read more

Howard Powders Thank you Klara. Hope YOU are doing well!! 🙂Neither of our surgeons want anything to do with us anymore!😂😂😂

Howard Powders Hi Angela. I thought I was done healing, and I was disappointed, around 2 months post op, but then mi ... Read more

Howard Powders Hi Angela. I thought I was done healing, and I was disappointed, around 2 months post op, but then miraculously my heart rate began a most welcome decline from mid 90’s down to 76 now. Proves to me I am still healing at almost 5 months, post op!! It could well take a year. Yes, Angela! Patience is a virtue.🙂🙂🙂

Howard Powders Hi Ana. How are you progressing?? Happy Thanksgiving back at you!!🙂🙂🙂

Howard Powders Hey Greg. Thanks for your inspiring post. Hope you are doing well!!🙂🙂🙂

Howard Powders Hello Deena. 14 months? I believe it! We all research for the best surgeons and the finest hospitals, ... Read more

Howard Powders Hello Deena. 14 months? I believe it! We all research for the best surgeons and the finest hospitals, but the one variable we cannot control is: we are each at the mercy of the responses of our own physiologies.

Howard Powders I hope everyone on this thread and all members of this wonderful inspirational site have a most wonde ... Read more

Howard Powders I hope everyone on this thread and all members of this wonderful inspirational site have a most wonderful Thanksgiving! We all have a lot to be thankful for! ❤️❤️❤️

Ana Brusso Amen to that Howard. 🙏🙏🙏

Klara Čičić "We are each at the mercy of the responses of our own physiologies. " Wow, so well said, Howard! And ... Read more

Klara Čičić "We are each at the mercy of the responses of our own physiologies. " Wow, so well said, Howard! And yes, we definitely have a lot to be thankful for. Happy Thanksgiving!

Howard Powders Hey Ana! Are you doing okay?? Hope you have a Happy Thanksgiving! We made it, Ana!!🙂🙂🙂

Howard Powders Thank you, Klara. Same to you!🙂

Ana Brusso Yes Howard, we made it! By the Grace of God.

Howard Powders Amen.

Howard Powdersposted an update

1118 days ago

Deena Z, Klara Čičić reacted to this

For those members contemplating minimally invasive mitral valve repair, you may still need 3-6 months, up to perhaps a year, to restore your full pre-surgical ...Read more

For those members contemplating minimally invasive mitral valve repair, you may still need 3-6 months, up to perhaps a year, to restore your full pre-surgical energy; this, straight out of the Cleveland Clinic. Those who fully recover quickly, 100%, seem to be in the minority. I had my procedure on July 8th and today, 10.5 weeks post-op, I tried my aerobic home rowing machine for the first time post-op, the way I used to do it pre-op with no problem, and I have never felt so exhausted. Minimally invasive valve repair is major heart surgery. Only the incision is smaller. Full recovery can take quite a while. Good luck!!🙂

Kristine Schroeder Well said, Howard. I poop out by 7:30-8 every evening. I am 8 weeks post op and dr wants me to start ... Read more

Kristine Schroeder Well said, Howard. I poop out by 7:30-8 every evening. I am 8 weeks post op and dr wants me to start cardiac rehab. 😛

Ana Brusso So good to read this post Howard. Puts perspective on a lot of us. I’m constantly reminded by nurse ... Read more

Ana Brusso So good to read this post Howard. Puts perspective on a lot of us. I’m constantly reminded by nurses etc how major my surgery was and how patient I have to be with my body. Is difficult for people who have been active to slow down but we have to do it. We need patience, perseverance and self control and just take it easy. The recovery will come in its own time.

Howard Powders Folks see “minimally invasive” and mistakenly think it has a much quicker recovery than the chest ... Read more

Howard Powders Folks see “minimally invasive” and mistakenly think it has a much quicker recovery than the chest zipper. Both procedures are major surgery, a huge shock to the body, when the heart is stopped and we are placed on the heart lung machine. The one sign I am significantly improving is my heart rate is now high 80’s instead of high 90’s. Took me three hours to get over the exhausted feeling after using my machine. The cardiac rehab machines are a walk in the park-very easy in comparison-gave me a false sense of security! I read that Adam was really tired at week 10 after his procedure. Hope my 2 favorite people here, Kristine and Ana are doing well!! Patience is a virtue!🙂🙂🙂

Terry Tannenbaum Not me. I had the DaVinci in 2010 on a Wednesday and was released at noon on Saturday with no complic ... Read more

Terry Tannenbaum Not me. I had the DaVinci in 2010 on a Wednesday and was released at noon on Saturday with no complications. Four weeks later I was back to work teaching. I guess everyone's body adapts differently. I hope to be as fortunate as I was for the first operation when I go for my re-op valve repair next month.

Andy Nara Does anyone have high diastolic pressure or high heart rate after surgery? I had my mitral and tricus ... Read more

Andy Nara Does anyone have high diastolic pressure or high heart rate after surgery? I had my mitral and tricuspid valve repair 4 months ago. The high diastolic and heart rate issues developed after surgery

Rose Madura Great advice Howard!

Angela Meletiadis Thank you, Howard! I think my heart is healing well and I could easily feel the difference at 4 weeks ... Read more

Angela Meletiadis Thank you, Howard! I think my heart is healing well and I could easily feel the difference at 4 weeks post op when I climbed a flight of stairs without stopping! My problem is the pain from the thoracotomy and the incision in my left armpit. I am trying to be patient but it seems to be getting worse as the numbness goes away. I am closing 12 weeks in a few days.

Susan Lynn I totally agree, Howard! Full recovery takes time!

Howard Powders There is a post by Adam here somewhere where he said he emoted to his wife after 10 weeks post-op, co ... Read more

Howard Powders There is a post by Adam here somewhere where he said he emoted to his wife after 10 weeks post-op, complaining he was still so tired. I feel the same. I’m sleeping 10 hours, when I used to easily get by on 7. I wish my body was like Terry’s, but one has to play the cards I got dealt. Wish I could sue the dealer! My wife says I’m around 65% of my former self. Thank you, Kristine, Ana, Terry, Andy, Rose, Angela, and last, but certainly NOT least, Susan, for your kind input to my post!🙂🙂🙂

Erik W. Agree 100%, the heart surgery part is still a major surgery. I feel very fortunate in that now at 14 ... Read more

Erik W. Agree 100%, the heart surgery part is still a major surgery. I feel very fortunate in that now at 14 weeks post minimally invasive surgery I do feel 100%, and perhaps even more, compared to pre-surgery energy and stamina levels.

Joseph Heinzmann Not going to reiterate my full story here. If your'e interested, you can click my profile and check it out. But here are the cliffs for my robotic mitral valve repair:
1. Pushed too hard too early and went backwards because of it.
2. Did the walking and hiking thing and it was pretty good.
3. Tried to run and got a high HR pretty quickly so gave up.
4. Asked cardiologist if I could try to run and he said to give it a try but really listen to your body.
5. Started couch to 5k around September 2021. Ran (slowly but continuously) a 5k Thanksgiving weekend 2021.

It takes time, a lot of time, to get fully back. Add to this that many of us who had scheduled repairs waited a couple of months once we were sick enough to have surgery and that we didn't stay maximally fit in those months. So we were often starting from a much lower baseline. Couple that with a heart that was working one way pre surgery and another way after surgery and it's asking a lot to snap your fingers and just be back to normal.

Donna Murphy I had DaVinci mitral valve repair in 2011. I went in on Tuesday morning and was released on Thursday ... Read more

Donna Murphy I had DaVinci mitral valve repair in 2011. I went in on Tuesday morning and was released on Thursday at noon - I walked out of the hospital. I did about 3 months of cardiac rehab and felt so good, I continued working out. I now swim a mile about 2 or 3 times a week and teach water aerobics twice a week. Honestly, this surgery turned my life around.

Howard Powders Okay Erik. I circled week 14 on my calendar!🙂 I’m 11 weeks post-op. Doing the cardiac rehab. 13 ... Read more

Howard Powders Okay Erik. I circled week 14 on my calendar!🙂 I’m 11 weeks post-op. Doing the cardiac rehab. 13 visits in. Yes, Joseph. It can take a lot of time back to 100%. I am much better than a month ago, but still not 100% yet after 11 weeks. Frustrating, but that time will come! And then again there are the amazing folks like Terry and Donna, who recover quickly. Donna, this surgery turned my life around too. I do my daily one mile walk 4-5 minutes faster than pre-op, BUT I do need more sleep and energy-wise, I still need more pep at 11 weeks post op. Tremendous improvement over the last month and there will be more! Looking forward to it! God Bless!🙂

Angela Meletiadis I am amazed at the diversity in this group with regard to post op recovery time. Could someone give m ... Read more

Angela Meletiadis I am amazed at the diversity in this group with regard to post op recovery time. Could someone give me a small summary of what cardiac rehab involves? I live in Greece and I was told to walk, walk, walk, and that's it. I was VERY active pre-op: biking, swimming, hiking, tennis, skiing. Right now (12 weeks) I wouldn't dare try tennis because of the pain.

Klara Čičić Thank you everyone for their input, it means alot to someone waiting for the surgery like me. Thank y ... Read more

Klara Čičić Thank you everyone for their input, it means alot to someone waiting for the surgery like me. Thank you Howard for your honesty, I really think I will be in this group, recovering more slowly. I appreciate your advise and will remember them when recovering... Best regards from Germany!

Howard Powders Of course, Klara! I notice many surgeons who do minimally invasive surgery play up 4-8 weeks recovery ... Read more

Howard Powders Of course, Klara! I notice many surgeons who do minimally invasive surgery play up 4-8 weeks recovery, as if that’s the norm. In reality, I believe that’s the exception. Some folks are lucky like Terry and Donna and recover quickly. For most folks, 3 months is the sweet spot, I believe, to feeling really good! I am 11 weeks post-op and while I have improved tremendously since my first week home, I’m not 100% yet. I do my daily one mile walk 4-5 minutes faster now than pre-op, which I find amazing, but I also don’t get out of bed as early as I used to. When that improves, I will celebrate!
In closing, we belong to an exclusive club: those who had their surgery postponed by covid. Your day is finally almost here. So, best of luck and post us how you are doing when you can! Regards from steamy Tampa!!🙂🙂🙂

Howard Powders Hi Angela. Supposedly, 36 sessions using exercise machines like treadmills and some other aerobic exe ... Read more

Howard Powders Hi Angela. Supposedly, 36 sessions using exercise machines like treadmills and some other aerobic exercise machines to exercise your “new” heart. Takes about an hour per session. I have 13 sessions done and I am much better at the machines than when I started. Each machine can have its resistance adjusted, as you get stronger. Your cardiologist should prescribe it for you. At 12 weeks you are definitely ready for cardiac rehab! Ask your cardiologist to write you a prescription for it with a list of approved rehabilitation centers. Good luck!!🙂

Angela Meletiadis thanks, Howard! I can't wait to get started!

Lilian Peña Nice to hear your progress on your recovery @Howard. Patience is a virtue😊always listen to your bo ... Read more

Lilian Peña Nice to hear your progress on your recovery @Howard. Patience is a virtue😊always listen to your body. Me, 29th weeks post op, I suffered breastbone pain, sometimes my colarbone and backbone ache usually when Cold at the office. I wear jacket most of the time.

Howard Powders Thanks Lilian. I was cold too, both at the hospital post-op and at home for the first 6 weeks, but it ... Read more

Howard Powders Thanks Lilian. I was cold too, both at the hospital post-op and at home for the first 6 weeks, but it wore off. Maybe yours will too! My right breast is a bit sensitive. The incision is just to the right of it. 12th week post-op tomorrow!

Klara Čičić Howard this is so so soooo true, I can not imagine what on earth is minimal in this operation??? Inva ... Read more

Klara Čičić Howard this is so so soooo true, I can not imagine what on earth is minimal in this operation??? Invasive on the other hand, very much.

Angela Meletiadis Klara, I've felt the same way. If this is minimal, what is invasive? I felt like a spaghetti strainer ... Read more

Angela Meletiadis Klara, I've felt the same way. If this is minimal, what is invasive? I felt like a spaghetti strainer. Take heart, however. Everything closes up in due time and with proper incision care. Be strong! Rest from housework. No lifting. No shaking out laundry, bedding, etc (a Greek thing to get the wrinkles out) I hope you have help at home!!!

Howard Powders Klara, the advantage really of minimally invasive is cosmetic-an easily hidden small scar rather than ... Read more

Howard Powders Klara, the advantage really of minimally invasive is cosmetic-an easily hidden small scar rather than an ugly zipper down your entire chest. That is all. After 12 weeks, still haven’t regained all my energy and strength. But much better than I was after a few weeks post-op. So it will take time. Incision pain left me after 3 weeks. Glad it’s over for you!!🙂

Rose Madura At the end of the day, it's still open heart surgery. Glad you all are doing better.

Howard Powders Yes it is, Rose. Beware of MD’s who make distorted claims that minimally invasive heart surgery is ... Read more

Howard Powders Yes it is, Rose. Beware of MD’s who make distorted claims that minimally invasive heart surgery is a lot easier on the patient than breaking the sternum. They have a vested financial interest in recruiting patients.

Howard Powders 14 weeks, Eric? I'm at 12.5 weeks now. Hoping for the best.

Howard Powders Yes, Joseph.The consensus among us is that full recovery takes quite a lot of time. Some lucky folks... Read more

Howard Powders Yes, Joseph.The consensus among us is that full recovery takes quite a lot of time. Some lucky folks like Terry and Donna are the exceptions, and recovered quickly. Thank you Joseph for your clear articulations as to why a complete recovery takes so long for most of us. A HUGE shock to our body rhythms, stopping our hearts, hooking up to a heart-lung machine and then re-starting our hearts again, usually beating much faster than before. Thanks to everybody in our community who stopped by to improve this thread, much more than I could alone.

Klara Čičić Dear Howard, just wanted to say I agree with everything you said. I am youngish, but my recovery is a ... Read more

Klara Čičić Dear Howard, just wanted to say I agree with everything you said. I am youngish, but my recovery is and will be a slow one, I can already see that, I fit in that majority, not the exceptions. My heart rate is between 90-100 which also wasn't a surprise thanks to this site... It will sloooowly come back to normal, I'm sure. I have help 24/7 for the first 4weeks after I come home because of the kids... and after that friends and family will chime in, but I suppose not every day...so It will be a challenge, but we will find a way to manage it :) Big hug to everyone from Austria!

Howard Powders Hi Klara! Great to “hear”(“see”?) from you! I will say, my heart rate was 99 when I was home ... Read more

Howard Powders Hi Klara! Great to “hear”(“see”?) from you! I will say, my heart rate was 99 when I was home after 2 weeks, and measured by my cardiologist, which came as a surprise, because after the surgery, for the first time in a long time, I didn’t hear my heartbeat. I just assumed it was beating normally. That was around 11 weeks ago. Now it’s around 82. So your heart rate in the 90’’s will gradually come down. My cardiologist said it would, and she was right. Before surgery my heartrate was usually 65, but I’m happy with 82! The only thing I’m still waiting to happen is restoration of my energy. Not complaining. Just waiting the 3-6 months to a year. Exercising at least 3 times a week helps. Do the cardiac rehab if it’s offered to you, Klara. It helps gets your heartbeat rate back down a bit. So glad you are back home recovering now!!🙂🙂🙂

Howard Powdersposted an update

1157 days ago

Kimberly Eisenhut, Rose Madura, Klara Čičić reacted to this

Heart surgery milestone moment: after 5 weeks of recovery, FINALLY, the AC in the house isn’t making me feel uncomfortably cold. Getting back to normal!🙂🙂 ...Read more

Heart surgery milestone moment: after 5 weeks of recovery, FINALLY, the AC in the house isn’t making me feel uncomfortably cold. Getting back to normal!🙂🙂

Rose Madura Whoo hoo Howard! It's the little blessings that make us happy sometimes!

Richard Munson But your electric bill is up. Nice you are getting back to normal temperature wise.

Richard Munson Maybe you are having hot flashes.

Klara Čičić Happy for you, Howard!

Howard Powders Thank you Klara. Richard? Not so sure!😂

Howard Powders Thank you Rose!!🙂

Richard Munson I mean well howard, now if i could only convince my crabby wife.

So glad you’re getting back to normal Howard, nothing like it.

Howard Powdersposted an update

1166 days ago

Anyone here with mitral valve repair, how long did you have to stay on the 81 mg. aspirin? Don’t want to stay on aspirin forever. Is long term aspirin use ...Read more

Anyone here with mitral valve repair, how long did you have to stay on the 81 mg. aspirin? Don’t want to stay on aspirin forever. Is long term aspirin use constipating? Thank you!

Tom Everson I am on it 81 mg aspirin the rest of my life and in my case it is not constipating

Howard Powders Thank you.

Terry Tannenbaum I had my first MV repair in 2010 but my cardiologist didn't tell me I needed to take it, my Optomolog ... Read more

Terry Tannenbaum I had my first MV repair in 2010 but my cardiologist didn't tell me I needed to take it, my Optomologist suggested I start taking it and he said I would live longer. For some reason I beleived him and been taking it ever since. I don't really need to take it. No constipation whatsoever.

My ophthalmologist was the one that suggested I should take it after I had a TIA back in 2010. I have ... Read more

My ophthalmologist was the one that suggested I should take it after I had a TIA back in 2010. I have been taking it ever since. No constipation here.

Neal Syverson Cleveland Clinic told me I would take it the rest of my life.

Howard Powders Seems like mixed messages. An online hunt says 3 months for the aspirin after mitral valve repair. Th ... Read more

Howard Powders Seems like mixed messages. An online hunt says 3 months for the aspirin after mitral valve repair. Thank you, Neal, Ana and Terry for your input!🙂

Deena Z My surgeon’s office at Mt Sinai in NYC said not to take long term.
This was in 2021.

Howard Powders Hi Deena. I have my post op. surgeon appt. this afternoon. The consensus of patients from the net is ... Read more

Howard Powders Hi Deena. I have my post op. surgeon appt. this afternoon. The consensus of patients from the net is 3 months. I will ask him. So much negative press on long-term aspirin. Thank you!

Susan Lynn I took it for one year after mv repair. Told to stop by my surgeon's office. None of my other do... Read more

Susan Lynn I took it for one year after mv repair. Told to stop by my surgeon's office. None of my other docs recommended that I take it on an ongoing basis.

Howard Powders Hi Susan. Did you stop cold turkey or did you taper down? Can’t find any info on aspirin tapering. ... Read more

Howard Powders Hi Susan. Did you stop cold turkey or did you taper down? Can’t find any info on aspirin tapering. Thank you!

Howard Powders Thanks, Richard. I take Prilosec for GERD. Very sensitive stomach. Aspirin is the last thing I would ... Read more

Howard Powders Thanks, Richard. I take Prilosec for GERD. Very sensitive stomach. Aspirin is the last thing I would take on my own.

Howard Powders I have Barrett's too. Omeprazole is the generic of Prilosec.

Howard Powders So here's the deal. Two MD's in the same field, cadiology:
My surgeon says don't take baby aspirin ... Read more

Howard Powders So here's the deal. Two MD's in the same field, cadiology:
My surgeon says don't take baby aspirin because I don't have cardiovascular disease.
My cardiologist: daily baby aspirin is EXTREMELY important!
How do you spell CONFUSION?

Howard Powders Sure!

Susan Lynn Howard - i was able to stop aspirin immediately. But, that's a good question - lots of medication... Read more

Susan Lynn Howard - i was able to stop aspirin immediately. But, that's a good question - lots of medications can't be abruptly stopped. It's important to question everything. Best of luck!

Howard Powders Good. The surgeon's nurse told me my cardiologist is the boss, regarding all medications.

Howard Powders Thanks, Susan. I will do 3 months on aspirin, then use a pill cutter to gradually taper off. My surge ... Read more

Howard Powders Thanks, Susan. I will do 3 months on aspirin, then use a pill cutter to gradually taper off. My surgeon asked me today, "why are you taking aspirin? You don't have cardiovascular disease." I'm taking it because they gave it to me in the hospital and was one of the medications on my dismissal list. The hospital and the surgeon seem to be completely uncoordinated.

Howard Powders She meant that the surgeon will not make decisions on my medications. That's the job of my cardiologi ... Read more

Howard Powders She meant that the surgeon will not make decisions on my medications. That's the job of my cardiologist.

Deena Z For what it is worth, I was told by my surgeon's office that the use of baby aspirin for three months ... Read more

Deena Z For what it is worth, I was told by my surgeon's office that the use of baby aspirin for three months post surgery was to prevent clotting re: my annular rings that were "installed".

Deena Z Richard- rub it in!

Howard Powders Hey Deena. I plan on doing the same. Aspirin for 3 months. Thanks for your input!

Thomas Brusstar My cardiologist at Northwestern has confirmed that I should stay on aspirin for the rest of my life. ... Read more

Thomas Brusstar My cardiologist at Northwestern has confirmed that I should stay on aspirin for the rest of my life. My mitral valve repair (like most repairs, I think) involved implant of an annular ring to hold the base of the valve in the right shape. That ring in there (it doesn’t move, it’s just sewn in place) may cause some clotting, so the aspirin is a low-tech way to inhibit clotting just a bit. In the last few years people WITHOUT implanted cardiac devices have been told to stop taking daily aspirin, because the gastric bleeding risk outweighed the general anti-clotting benefit; but for me, I need the slight anti-clotting of the baby aspirin.

Howard Powders My surgeon at post-op appointment asked me why I was taking baby aspirin since I don’t have cardiov ... Read more

Howard Powders My surgeon at post-op appointment asked me why I was taking baby aspirin since I don’t have cardiovascular disease, stents or bypass surgery; only mitral valve repair. My cardiologist, on the other hand, seems to want me to take aspirin forever. I’m going with my surgeon. My stomach has been awful after a month on aspirin.

Timothy Williams I had mitral valve repair at the Univ of Mich, which included an annular ring this past March. Simil ... Read more

Timothy Williams I had mitral valve repair at the Univ of Mich, which included an annular ring this past March. Similar to what Thomas said, I was told to take a small dose of aspirin daily for rest of life to help inhibit clotting.

Janelle Hurst Howard, are you taking "enteric-coated" aspirin? If not, try that because it means it's coated so th ... Read more

Janelle Hurst Howard, are you taking "enteric-coated" aspirin? If not, try that because it means it's coated so that it doesn't dissolve until it's in your intestine, should be available anywhere they sell aspirin. I had to switch to that because regular aspirin ate up my stomach and it's been so much better. I was told to take for life because of annuloplasty ring they placed in surgery, I guess there is a small chance that it could cause clotting. Are you also taking potassium tablets? Those are known to be very rough on stomachs too, but necessary when taking some water pills/diuretics. I also found that statins caused upset stomach for me (I probably have GERD too, my stomach is very sensitive).

Howard Powders Thanks, Timothy and Janelle. My surgeon was basically in line with Dr.Marc Gerdisch who states that " ... Read more

Howard Powders Thanks, Timothy and Janelle. My surgeon was basically in line with Dr.Marc Gerdisch who states that "someone who does not have a diagnosis of vascular disease, someone who has not had their valve replaced, someone who has not had coronary bypass surgery, those patients, those people should not be taking a baby aspirin.” And I fit that description. No cardiovascular disease, no bypass, no valve replacement. That's why my surgeon asked "why are you taking baby aspirin?"

Erik W. also like several others, aspirin for the rest of my life I am told by my cardiologist (I had valve/a ... Read more

Erik W. also like several others, aspirin for the rest of my life I am told by my cardiologist (I had valve/aortic root replacement)

Howard Powdersposted an update

1167 days ago

Patient portal from yesterday. 96 bpm 4 weeks post op. Within normal range of 60-100. Pre-op was around 65. Cardiologist never mentioned it. I read this is ...Read more

Patient portal from yesterday. 96 bpm 4 weeks post op. Within normal range of 60-100. Pre-op was around 65. Cardiologist never mentioned it. I read this is a side effect of valve surgery and will subside. Anyone had a high heartbeat post op and had it subside over time? Thanks!

George Gardopee Hi Howard. My RHR increased when I had surgery last November - not as much as yours, but the change ... Read more

George Gardopee Hi Howard. My RHR increased when I had surgery last November - not as much as yours, but the change was very obvious. The two plots below are of my RHR for all of 2021 and for 2022 year-to-date. It took about three months (and some med adjustments) to return to pre-surgery levels.

George Gardopee Since January of this year:

George Gardopee There are a few articles on this site that discuss this side effect of surgery.

George Gardopee https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/heart-surgery-blog/.../high-heart-rate/

George Gardopee https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/learning/high-rate-loud-heartbeat/

High Heart Rates & Loud Heartbeats After Cardiac Surgery

https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/learning/high-rate-loud-heartbeat/

Get important patient information about high heart rates and loud heartbeats after cardiac surgery from Dr. Junaid Khan, heart surgeon in Oakland, California.

Howard Powders Thanks, George. I never had 96 before! The cardiologist didn’t mention it and I have the post-op su ... Read more

Howard Powders Thanks, George. I never had 96 before! The cardiologist didn’t mention it and I have the post-op surgeon appt. this Thursday. I will ask him. I saw a tape from Dr. Gilinov at Cleveland Clinic in which he says afib from valve surgery subsides in 6 weeks for 93% of post-op valve surgery patients. I don’t believe I have afib, but I could be wrong. Thanks for all the info.!🙂

Howard Powders Hey George! I feel quite reassured after the Dr. Khan interview. Thank you for that!!😊

George Gardopee Howard - I should probably have also mentioned that I started cardiac rehab in late January also. My ... Read more

George Gardopee Howard - I should probably have also mentioned that I started cardiac rehab in late January also. My cardiologist upped my metoprolol dose from 75 mg/day to 100 mg/day in January because the rehab people said my heart rate wasn’t coming down after exercise. Since then we have the dose tapered off to 50 mg/day. I hope to be off it by the end of the year. Good luck!

Rita Savelis Yes. A fast heartbeat is definitely a common side effect. It's also why many patients are prescribed ... Read more

Rita Savelis Yes. A fast heartbeat is definitely a common side effect. It's also why many patients are prescribed a betablocker - in order to slow your post-surgery heart down a bit to give it a break. You can have a fast heart rate but that does not mean you have afib (another very common post surgery side effect). Your heart has been through a lot. You may never have the heart rate you once had. Take a deep breath and allow your heart to heal at its pace. Take care.

Howard Powders Thank you Rita. I see the surgeon tomorrow and will see what he says about the heart rate. Good advic ... Read more

Howard Powders Thank you Rita. I see the surgeon tomorrow and will see what he says about the heart rate. Good advice. Thanks!

Howard Powders Thanks again George. I’m already taking so many meds! ☹️

Linda Johnson Howard, I also had a mitral and tricuspid valve repair 6 months ago, and experienced a change in my r ... Read more

Linda Johnson Howard, I also had a mitral and tricuspid valve repair 6 months ago, and experienced a change in my resting and walking heart rate postop. Like others have posted, it is all part of the process postop. The meds do control the rate, though I requested med changes a few times due to side effects including dropping the heart rate too low. With several adjustments it stabilized. Share your concerns with your doctor and request med changes if needed during your recovery.

Kenneth Southard Mine was running around 90 about a week after surgery on July 7th. Today on August 3rd it's down to ... Read more

Kenneth Southard Mine was running around 90 about a week after surgery on July 7th. Today on August 3rd it's down to 72. It's literally going down about a beat per day since then. Pre-surgery, I was high 50s low 60s. However, I was also on 25mg per day of Metoprolol. I'm not currently taking any of that now.

Howard Powders Thank you Linda and Kenneth. I opened my patient portal yesterday and 96 blew my mind! Averaged mid 6 ... Read more

Howard Powders Thank you Linda and Kenneth. I opened my patient portal yesterday and 96 blew my mind! Averaged mid 60’s pre-op.

Howard Powdersposted an update

1174 days ago

The most noticeable side effect after surgery beside incision discomfort and tiredness is being cold, as if I have the flu. I’m constantly turning up my house ...Read more

The most noticeable side effect after surgery beside incision discomfort and tiredness is being cold, as if I have the flu. I’m constantly turning up my house thermostat and I’m usually always warm. No added meds except daily 81 mg. aspirin. My vitals are good. Anybody else experience constantly being cold during valve surgery recovery?🙂

Richard Munson Yes, but it was january in massachusetts.

Howard Powders 😂

Martin Smith My hands and feet tended to feel very cold during cool weather for the first year after surgery. I su ... Read more

Martin Smith My hands and feet tended to feel very cold during cool weather for the first year after surgery. I suspected it was exacerbated by beta blockers which I'd never been on prior to surgery.

Rose Madura My feed are cold most likely due to Metoprolol.

Howard Powders I’m not taking a beta blocker. I have a surgeon post op appt. next week on Thursday. I will ask hi ... Read more

Howard Powders I’m not taking a beta blocker. I have a surgeon post op appt. next week on Thursday. I will ask him for possible cause. Thanks!

Richard Munson Howard if its just cold feet there is a fairly simple circulation test that i had a couple years back ... Read more

Richard Munson Howard if its just cold feet there is a fairly simple circulation test that i had a couple years back. You might suggest that.

Richard Munson You are the poster child for lack of meds post surgery. I wish i could stop eliquis and metropolol wh ... Read more

Richard Munson You are the poster child for lack of meds post surgery. I wish i could stop eliquis and metropolol which is why i am wearing the loop sensor but i also had a fib so maybe that is why.

Rita Savelis Oh, yes. Body temperature out of wack is definitely a possible side effect of surgery. So much of you ... Read more

Rita Savelis Oh, yes. Body temperature out of wack is definitely a possible side effect of surgery. So much of your body can be affected by heart surgery, as the heart is so central. The thyroid gland, which controls body temperature amongst other things, can be destabilised for a bit. I was freezing all summer and slept with very heavy blankets. I didn't turn up the heat but I covered myself all the time with coats and blankets. It's true that betablockers make your hands and feet cold, but the body temperature change you're talking about affects the whole body. I hear you Howard. Your body needs to recover from the intense ordeal it's been put through, and it will. Take care.

James Hall Yes I was always cold I had my house scortchio all the time. Its taken over a year but its not so bad ... Read more

James Hall Yes I was always cold I had my house scortchio all the time. Its taken over a year but its not so bad now.

Howard Powders Thanks, Rita and James for your helpful answers!

Howard Powders I guess, Richard. I’ve always been relatively healthy. I take medicine for hypertention, but am del ... Read more

Howard Powders I guess, Richard. I’ve always been relatively healthy. I take medicine for hypertention, but am delighted that after the valve surgery, my blood pressure is finally normal after 35 years of being consistently high.

Richard Munson Just curious howard what your bp is. We are in the same age bracket and i feel that 120/80 is good fo ... Read more

Richard Munson Just curious howard what your bp is. We are in the same age bracket and i feel that 120/80 is good for me. But to get there i take a couple of meds like amlodipine. I started baby aspirin at 45 and took it until afib 5 years ago switched me to eliquis. Since my maze procedure during mitral valve repair my goal was to return to the aspirin but my cardiologist argues with me. Its why i am wearing the loop. If a year goes by with no a fib i will beat the drum again. Too many meds.there is no way the drug companies can predict drug interactions from all the combinations. Of course if i win the argument and ditch the eliquis i could have another a fib incident, have a stroke and not reach 81 but life is a gamble anyway.

Howard Powders My bp used to be around 150/85. Now it’s 105/83. After the surgery. I don’t ever remember having ... Read more

Howard Powders My bp used to be around 150/85. Now it’s 105/83. After the surgery. I don’t ever remember having 105 before.

Janelle Hurst Howard, I was absolutely freezing in the first week after my surgery. I normally run cold but I could ... Read more

Janelle Hurst Howard, I was absolutely freezing in the first week after my surgery. I normally run cold but I could not get warm, especially in the hospital. I did lose a decent amount of blood and my hemoglobin dropped almost in half, that could have had something to do with it. I also had really bad muscle pain but I think that was from the statins - they did have me stop taking those when I left the hospital because they can cause muscle pain...I feel like the muscle pain and freezing feeling started and left me at the same time, but not aware of statins causing someone to feel cold. I too, like you, had much lower BP after the surgery. I supposed lower BP could mean less blood to your extremities and also is associated with anemia/blood loss.

Herb Greenberg I was freezing from the moment I had surgery, and I never get cold. My wife would walk in the room at ... Read more

Herb Greenberg I was freezing from the moment I had surgery, and I never get cold. My wife would walk in the room at the hospital and say it was boiling, because I had made the room as hot as I could make it. It continued when I got home. That ultimately dissipated and all returned to normal in fairly short order.

Rita Savelis Rather than warm the room wear sweaters, coats and blankets. And yes, your inner temperature gage wil ... Read more

Rita Savelis Rather than warm the room wear sweaters, coats and blankets. And yes, your inner temperature gage will go back to normal.

Howard Powders Thanks, Janelle, Herb and Rita. Still cold. Starting 4 weeks into recovery. Weird, because I am alway ... Read more

Howard Powders Thanks, Janelle, Herb and Rita. Still cold. Starting 4 weeks into recovery. Weird, because I am always complaining how warm I am. The AC at the same temperature is now too cold for me. Glad this is usually temporary.

Howard Powders Hey, Herb. Same. In the hospital room, I had them raise the thermostat. I was freezing. First time ev ... Read more

Howard Powders Hey, Herb. Same. In the hospital room, I had them raise the thermostat. I was freezing. First time ever I had a thermostat raised. Completely out of character!

Herb Greenberg Howard, in the hospital I wrapped myself in a blanked to walk the halls. I kept wondering how people ... Read more

Herb Greenberg Howard, in the hospital I wrapped myself in a blanked to walk the halls. I kept wondering how people could work in a place that was always so cold. Once I got home, my wife - who is ALWAYS cold – would be walking outside with me. I'd have a jacket on and she wouldn't. CRAZY! But at some point, wish I remember when, our roles reversed to where they were supposed to be!

Herb Greenberg Howard, as you've already learned... a sense of humor goes a long way in helping with recovery.

Howard Powders I would walk a mile in Florida in winter with a tee shirt and shorts, 50 degrees. Lol!

Herb Greenberg I fully get it!

Howard Powders I have an appt. with the surgeon this Thursday and I will ask him about it.

Howard Powdersposted an update

1176 days ago

I realize that valve surgery is a highly competitive profession, but some surgeons out there are flirting with false advertising. One UT surgeon says pain is ...Read more

I realize that valve surgery is a highly competitive profession, but some surgeons out there are flirting with false advertising. One UT surgeon says pain is minimal and you will be up and about in only 2 weeks with his minimally invasive surgery. Having had this exact same surgery done by a distinguished minimally invasive valve repair surgeon, I can authoritatively say there is plenty of pain at the incision site. Going on 3 weeks and I still feel like crap. Haven’t had a decent night sleep in all that time. I also gained 10 pounds from all that fluid they continuously saturated myself with at the hospital. I have just about lost all of that, resulting from my body at night urinating practically every half hour, making sleep impossible. “Minimally invasive” sounds sanguine, but in reality, it is not. Minimally invasive valve surgery is serious, invasive surgery and beware the surgeons who try and dress it up like it is heaven’s answer to cutting the sternum. Perhaps a few weeks less of recovery, but still a very uncomfortable recovery. I notice quite a few surgeons on this site are talking up the benefits of minimally invasive surgery, while downplaying the very real downsides. Buyer beware.

Klara Čičić Thank you Howard for this honest warning, two cardiac surgeons in Croatia told me to be aware of that ... Read more

Klara Čičić Thank you Howard for this honest warning, two cardiac surgeons in Croatia told me to be aware of that! So my expectations are realistic I think. I wish you get better soon...

Thank you for your honesty Howard. I continue to keep you in prayer for your healing and recovery. Go ... Read more

Thank you for your honesty Howard. I continue to keep you in prayer for your healing and recovery. God bless you

Rose Madura Howard, this is the place to vent! It's no picnic in the park, that's for sure. And I'm sorry you ... Read more

Rose Madura Howard, this is the place to vent! It's no picnic in the park, that's for sure. And I'm sorry you were painted a rosy picture. I had a very difficult recovery, over a 3 month period, I was readmitted to the hospital four time and spent a total of 24 days in the hospital. I kind if had a "pollyannish" attitude going in which, in hindsight helped me not to feel worried. Somehow, I just knew I'd come out it ok. I hope you feel better soon.

Howard Powders Hi Klara and Ana! Minimally invasive does not mean pain-free shortcut. Wish the surgeons would be mor ... Read more

Howard Powders Hi Klara and Ana! Minimally invasive does not mean pain-free shortcut. Wish the surgeons would be more transparent on the weight gain in the hospital and the more than just a few sleepless nights from incision discomfort. Hope I’m not sounding ungrateful. The surgery IS a miracle!!😋

Howard Powders Hi Rose! Most of the surgeons are all too eager to play up the benefits, which can be miraculous. But ... Read more

Howard Powders Hi Rose! Most of the surgeons are all too eager to play up the benefits, which can be miraculous. But nothing about the hospital weight gain and pain intensity. Sorry to hear of your ordeal, Rose. Hope you are better now!!🙂

Rose Madura I am much better now and all the unknowns then seem minimal now. You will start feeling better soon! ... Read more

Rose Madura I am much better now and all the unknowns then seem minimal now. You will start feeling better soon! Take care.

Susan Lynn Howard - I am so sorry that you're having a difficult recovery. You're improving every day even if... Read more

Susan Lynn Howard - I am so sorry that you're having a difficult recovery. You're improving every day even if the change is not always obvious. Take it easy and stay positive. You might also want to find out if you can stop the diuretic. I was only on it for a week and it can be disruptive. Please keep us posted on your progress.

Kenneth Southard I was advised against the minimally invasive by both my surgeon and my ex-brother-in-law who is also ... Read more

Kenneth Southard I was advised against the minimally invasive by both my surgeon and my ex-brother-in-law who is also a Cardio Thoracic surgeon but does not do valves. They both told me of stories of people that have phantom pain, years after the surgery. I had to sleep in a recliner for a few nights and of course be careful. One thing that helped immensely was the Heart Hugger harness. Most discomfort was gone after 6 weeks, and now at am almost 3 months out, I rarely feel anything.

Rose Madura I can also vouch for the heart hugger. I had a full sternotomy and they pain was not all that bad. ... Read more

Rose Madura I can also vouch for the heart hugger. I had a full sternotomy and they pain was not all that bad.

Howard Powdersposted an update

1221 days ago

Patsy Stewart reacted to this

Oh well! Felt horrible at yesterday's 6 hour pre-testing and got the bad news today-I tested positive for covid. So surgery tomorrow is cancelled and... Read more

Oh well! Felt horrible at yesterday's 6 hour pre-testing and got the bad news today-I tested positive for covid. So surgery tomorrow is cancelled and resecheduled to July 8th, pending a negative covid test.

Rose Madura Because it's always something! Cancellations can be tough because you are emotionally ready, only t... Read more

Rose Madura Because it's always something! Cancellations can be tough because you are emotionally ready, only to have to wait. But you want to feel your best for surgery. Hopefully your Covid won't be too bad and things will go on as planned on July 8th! Godspeed!

Howard Powders Exactly, Rose! Thank you!!

Susan Lynn Sorry to hear that Howard. Hang in there and stay positive. You just have a few more weeks. Wi... Read more

Susan Lynn Sorry to hear that Howard. Hang in there and stay positive. You just have a few more weeks. Wishing you a speedy Covid recovery!

Kristine Schroeder Rats! So sorry, Howard! Keep positive and feel better.

Patsy Stewart Oh, my! Sorry, Howard. I hope you feel better soon and that you don’t have a rough time with Covid. ... Read more

Patsy Stewart Oh, my! Sorry, Howard. I hope you feel better soon and that you don’t have a rough time with Covid. Sending lots of prayers your way. ~❤️

Charlie Geer Omg. I was having a nervous break down about that already then the employee in line in front of me fo ... Read more

Charlie Geer Omg. I was having a nervous break down about that already then the employee in line in front of me for the test said she was having symptoms. But cheer up and get over the Covid and your time will be here’ before you know it.

Susan Jones Thinking of you today. Work on getting over COVID and then everything else will fall back into place ... Read more

Susan Jones Thinking of you today. Work on getting over COVID and then everything else will fall back into place. I know waiting can be hard but deep breath and breathe. Take care of yourself.

Yvonne Deane Oh no! I'm so sorry Howard! I had pre-op testing yesterday too and am waiting for results...sending h ... Read more

Yvonne Deane Oh no! I'm so sorry Howard! I had pre-op testing yesterday too and am waiting for results...sending hugs

Michael Brosnan Sorry that happen. Just getting over Covid my self. 2.5 weeks to go until surgery.

Howard Powders Good luck Michael with your surgery! Hope your covid was mild. Luckily, I had a mild covid case. I... Read more

Howard Powders Good luck Michael with your surgery! Hope your covid was mild. Luckily, I had a mild covid case. I went through 5 hours of pretesting, all for nothing, because of the positive covid test.! I have to do it all over again, July 6th, for surgery July 8th! Feel fine now!

Howard Powdersposted an update

1221 days ago

Bad luck! My covid test in pre-testing came back positive, so no surgery tomorrow. Rescheduled for July 8th. I must show them a negative covid test around that ...Read more

Bad luck! My covid test in pre-testing came back positive, so no surgery tomorrow. Rescheduled for July 8th. I must show them a negative covid test around that time to be approved for surgery. The truth? I’ve frlt lik hell the last few days, like the flu. 100 degrees temperature!

Klara Čičić Oh I'm so sorry to hear that... I hope you get well soon! Hang in there...

Howard Powders Thank you. Moved up to July 8th.

Howard Powdersposted an update

1227 days ago

Susan Lynn, Timothy Andre reacted to this

Having my severely regurgitating mitral valve repaired or replaced on June 10th by Dr. Jon Hoffberger at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Has done over 2500 valve ...Read more

Having my severely regurgitating mitral valve repaired or replaced on June 10th by Dr. Jon Hoffberger at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Has done over 2500 valve procedures. I prefer repair, and I’m 77. A close relative made it to 95, so repair is what I want, since tissue replacement valves only last 10-15 years. I’m an optomist!!🙂

Susan Lynn Howard - You're in the home stretch! One week and this procedure is behind you! Try to relax for... Read more

Susan Lynn Howard - You're in the home stretch! One week and this procedure is behind you! Try to relax for a few days and focus on that recovery. We'll be awaiting your good news!!

Rose Madura Howard, best wishes on your surgery. I'm sure you've made a good choice. Please keep us posted. God ... Read more

Rose Madura Howard, best wishes on your surgery. I'm sure you've made a good choice. Please keep us posted. Godspeed!

Kristine Schroeder Great news Howard. I am about a month behind you and having my mitral valve surgery in Tampa. Keeping ... Read more

Kristine Schroeder Great news Howard. I am about a month behind you and having my mitral valve surgery in Tampa. Keeping you in my prayers….and stay safe in the tropical rains!

Richard Munson I was 78 and got a repair. So far, so good.

Thomas Brusstar They will definitely repair if it's possible. It lasts forever! My mitral repair went great, and fo ... Read more

Thomas Brusstar They will definitely repair if it's possible. It lasts forever! My mitral repair went great, and four years later the repaired valve doesn't leak at all. You'll do great.

Howard Powdersposted an update

1263 days ago

Has atrial fibrillation after minimally invasive mitral valve repair or replacement been a problem for any members who didn’t have this arrythmia before the ...Read more

Has atrial fibrillation after minimally invasive mitral valve repair or replacement been a problem for any members who didn’t have this arrythmia before the surgery?

Neal Syverson I had a bought of AFIB after my robotic mitral valve repair while I was still in the hospital. I nev ... Read more

Neal Syverson I had a bought of AFIB after my robotic mitral valve repair while I was still in the hospital. I never had it before surgery. I was told it is quite common occurring in about 30% of all cases. I was also told most often this goes away after the heart has had a chance to fully heal.

Howard Powders I just found a video by Adam interviewing Dr. Gillinov and he says 94% of the patients who got it fr ... Read more

Howard Powders I just found a video by Adam interviewing Dr. Gillinov and he says 94% of the patients who got it from the surgery, have it go away in around 6 weeks. The key word is "temporary". So did your AFIB go away? Thanks for posting!

Richard Munson Ditto to that but even better i had it before mitrl valve surgery and so far after a year, it never c ... Read more

Richard Munson Ditto to that but even better i had it before mitrl valve surgery and so far after a year, it never came back. Currently have implant to detect it. If it is gone for another 8 months i may return to long distance running. Maybe not.

Neal Syverson I am currently 6 weeks post surgery. I have not had any AFIB that I know of since leaving the hospit ... Read more

Neal Syverson I am currently 6 weeks post surgery. I have not had any AFIB that I know of since leaving the hospital. Funny thing is in the hospital I had several nurses rush into my room at one point and ask "do you feel that"? I answered "feel what"? I did not know it was happening.

Rose Madura I had SAVR and experienced terrible bouts of afib/aflutter for about six week. I was very symptomatic ... Read more

Rose Madura I had SAVR and experienced terrible bouts of afib/aflutter for about six week. I was very symptomatic and each time, landed me back in the hospital until I converted back to sinus rhythm.

Susan Lynn I didn't have afib, but started having PACs and PVCs years after mv surgery. Now I'm on medication... Read more

Susan Lynn I didn't have afib, but started having PACs and PVCs years after mv surgery. Now I'm on medication to keep them in check. Please keep us posted on your progress and think positively!

Howard Powdersposted an update

1270 days ago

Rose Madura reacted to this

Had my appointment today at Sarasota Memorial Hospital with Cardiac Surgeon, Dr. Jon Hoffberger, who specializes in mitral valve repair and replacement due ...Read more

Had my appointment today at Sarasota Memorial Hospital with Cardiac Surgeon, Dr. Jon Hoffberger, who specializes in mitral valve repair and replacement due to severe regurgitation, with minimally invasive incisions. Scheduled for June 10th at 5:30 AM. Due to my age, 77, he probably will replace the valve with the latest state of the art non-calcifying animal valve, which he claims had no calcium deposits on it in 5 years of use, and which he seemed very happy about!🙂

Susan Lynn Howard - I think you'll be happy with the minimally-invasive entry. Congratulations on getting your... Read more

Susan Lynn Howard - I think you'll be happy with the minimally-invasive entry. Congratulations on getting your date.

Rose Madura Godspeed!

Marie Myers Wishing you a smooth journey through surgery and recovery!

Howard Powdersposted a photo

1307 days ago

Rose Madura, Frank Giovanniello , Patsy Stewart and 1 other reacted to this

Just hanging out.

Susan Lynn Great photo, Howard!

Deena Z Young looking 77!

Howard Powders Wow! Thanks, Susan and Deena for the kind words. That’s kind of when they tried pressuring me into ... Read more

Howard Powders Wow! Thanks, Susan and Deena for the kind words. That’s kind of when they tried pressuring me into the Mitraclip, I kind of went “Whaaaaat?!!”🙂

Donna Vedovelli nice photo Howard I do not even know how to post a photo

Howard Powdersposted an update

1308 days ago

Hello! Newbie. Anybody here reject Mitraclip because of a sensitive stomach and can't take Daily Plavix? Leaning toward robotic assisted mitral valve... Read more

Hello! Newbie. Anybody here reject Mitraclip because of a sensitive stomach and can't take Daily Plavix? Leaning toward robotic assisted mitral valve repair instead. Better outcome. No Plavix needed. Thank you!

Susan Lynn Welcome, Howard! Was there an extenuating medical reason they were suggesting MitraClip? Surgery... Read more

Susan Lynn Welcome, Howard! Was there an extenuating medical reason they were suggesting MitraClip? Surgery - regardless of the entry - carries some risks that MitraClip doesn't. Do your research and pick a surgeon, team, and facility you trust. Experienced mv surgeons repair rather than replace mitral valves more than 90% of the time. You definitely want a high-volume, successful one! Best of luck with your search!

Timothy Williams Agree that its important to let a surgeon use their desired approach. If you don't like the approach ... Read more

Timothy Williams Agree that its important to let a surgeon use their desired approach. If you don't like the approach, likely best to get second opinion from different surgeon. I wanted minimally invasive or robotic, but honestly wasn't sure why. My surgeon does mostly sternotomy approach for mitral valve repair. He recommended that for me as best chance of durable repair. I trusted institution, the surgeon and the approach. I had surgery Friday. So far, so good.

Howard Powders Thanks for your input! They want to dump the mitraclip on me, but it’s not a cure and I don’t wan ... Read more

Howard Powders Thanks for your input! They want to dump the mitraclip on me, but it’s not a cure and I don’t want to take Plavix every day. The best is mitral valve repair. Permanent solution. Glad you are doing well!