Hi all...it has been a while since I've posted. I have continued to work through this pericarditis over the past several months. I had a follow-up cardiac MRI ...Read more
Hi all...it has been a while since I've posted. I have continued to work through this pericarditis over the past several months. I had a follow-up cardiac MRI and blood work done on May 27 and am pleased to report that I don't have to see my cardiologist until next year!!!!! There is little to no inflammation around my heart! Yeah! I just want to give a HUGE shout out to my WONDERFUL cardiologist, DR. Cavalcante, at UPMC Presbyterian in Pittsburgh. He is the absolute BEST! He has been the "bright light" for me throughout this whole ordeal!
Christine Oliva Nice to hear from you and see you have been able to overcome this hurdle. Congratulations and enjoy y ... Read more
Christine Oliva Nice to hear from you and see you have been able to overcome this hurdle. Congratulations and enjoy your new and improved life. Its funny we can use this as a motivator to really enjoy and make a difference in our life. God's blessings to you and yours.
Went for a follow-up cardiac MRI last Tuesday at UPMC. My cardiologist is very please with my progress. The pericarditis is dramatically reduced, BUT, there ...Read more
Went for a follow-up cardiac MRI last Tuesday at UPMC. My cardiologist is very please with my progress. The pericarditis is dramatically reduced, BUT, there is still some inflammation surrounding my heart. I will continue treatment and go back for another MRI and some blood work in three months. Yay!!! A break from tests and Drs until summer!!!!! I have been going to cardiac rehab for about a month now and feeling stronger everyday. I believe I have finally turned that corner!!!
A good report!!!!!!!!! I had an echo yesterday. Everything has normalized. My cardiologist is very happy. EF=50-55. LV and RV normal size, function, and thickness. ...Read more
A good report!!!!!!!!! I had an echo yesterday. Everything has normalized. My cardiologist is very happy. EF=50-55. LV and RV normal size, function, and thickness. Trace regurgitation!!!!!!!!!!!
Sophia Ridley That's wonderful news. You must be over the moon!
I had a similar report, I think I grinned from ea ... Read more
Sophia Ridley That's wonderful news. You must be over the moon!
I had a similar report, I think I grinned from ear to ear for days afterwards! Just need to reduce the atrium and my spectre of AF will hopefully be a distant memory.
I was going to check in with you regarding your eye aura.... What's the latest? Has it improved, if so what did you do? I have had the aura every morning for the last 10 days, BP and pulse all normal. It's beginning to irritate me even though passes in 20 mins.
Jacqueline Cook Thanks for the messages ladies! Sophia...about the aura....I used to get this prior to surgery severa ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Thanks for the messages ladies! Sophia...about the aura....I used to get this prior to surgery several times a month. Now I get if very frequently...seems like every day or every other day. Mine typically pass in about 20 minutes also. I just make sure that if it happens when I'm out and about that I wait until it goes away before driving.
So I forgot to mention when I posted yesterday that my cardiologist released me (again) to go to cardiac rehab. I had my first "real" session this morning. ...Read more
So I forgot to mention when I posted yesterday that my cardiologist released me (again) to go to cardiac rehab. I had my first "real" session this morning. Felt really good to finally get to do something! Pericarditis is the pits! I pray it never returns!!
Shirley Wong-Cruz Very happy things are going well.. Tell me what exactly you do in Cardiac Rehab and how often please. ... Read more
Shirley Wong-Cruz Very happy things are going well.. Tell me what exactly you do in Cardiac Rehab and how often please.?. Blessings 😊
I had my follow-up with the cardiologist yesterday. According to the blood work and echo cardiogram done last week, the pericarditis looks like it is under ...Read more
I had my follow-up with the cardiologist yesterday. According to the blood work and echo cardiogram done last week, the pericarditis looks like it is under control. I am off the 600 mgs of ibuprofen 3X a day and continuing on the Colchicine for another month or two; HOWEVER, now he is concerned about my left ventricle function. I have had 5 echocardiograms since November 11. Two at Cleveland Clinic post-op. One on Dec. 23 when all the testing was done to get to the bottom of my persistent night sweats. One at UPMC when I was hospitalized and diagnosed with pericarditis over the Christmas holiday, and the one done last week as a follow up to the UPMC event. Here's the thing....my ejection fraction is all over the place. At CC I was in the 50s. On Dec. 23 I was in the 40-45 range. UPMC had me at 62. Last week I was at 35-40 range. My cardiologist is having all the echoes sent to his office so he can review them together. My husband and I will meet with him in 2 weeks and so we can review the actual discs together. Then I am scheduled for another echo in a month. I must admit I am beginning to get really discouraged. I am really nervous about these new findings.
Lynee Casper Thinking of you Jacqueline. Take care.
Kimberly Biddick I am so sorry this has been such a frustrating experience for you! I hope that your cardiologist can ... Read more
Kimberly Biddick I am so sorry this has been such a frustrating experience for you! I hope that your cardiologist can get this sorted out quickly and get you some answers. I am glad to hear the pericarditis is under control though!!
Michael Meyer I am glad to hear the pericarditis is resolving and have confidence your cardiologist can help resolv ... Read more
Michael Meyer I am glad to hear the pericarditis is resolving and have confidence your cardiologist can help resolve this next concern.
Kate Watson That sounds really frustrating and scary but is great news that the pericarditis is under control. H ... Read more
Kate Watson That sounds really frustrating and scary but is great news that the pericarditis is under control. Hoping you get some answers at your upcoming appointment! Hang in there.
Sounds like you are doing the best that you can do. Glad to hear the pericarditis is under control. H ... Read more
Sounds like you are doing the best that you can do. Glad to hear the pericarditis is under control. Have your cardiologists looked at other tests besides an echo? We had a blip where we thought I may have a clot and I ended up with a 4D CT scan and it showed much better valve function (and a more reliable picture) compared to the echo I had. It sounds like your cardiologist is being vigilant about your care! Best wishes to you!
Tammy Pilcher Prayers for you, Jacqueline. God bless you!
Wanda Mroz Hang in there... Hope they figure it out soon and you feel better.
Jacqueline Cook Thanks everyone. I am so very thankful for this community! Laura....I am considering traveling to UPM ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Thanks everyone. I am so very thankful for this community! Laura....I am considering traveling to UPMC to see the cardiologist that did the cardiac MRI when I was hospitalized in December. He was pretty adamant about getting a follow-up cardiac MRI 6-8weeks after starting the pericarditis treatment. I asked my cardiologist about the MRI and he seemed to think that it wasn't necessary at this time. But you are right....CT scans and MRIs are more in depth. They took thousands (literally) of images of my heart when I was at UPMC. I'll keep everyone posted.
Kelly Weisgarber Sending prayers sorry you are still struggling with some issues, I hope that you get some answers s ... Read more
Kelly Weisgarber Sending prayers sorry you are still struggling with some issues, I hope that you get some answers soon.
Well, the battle with this pericarditis continues. I have been faithfully taking my meds as prescribed. I have refrained from cardiac rehab....I am beginning ...Read more
Well, the battle with this pericarditis continues. I have been faithfully taking my meds as prescribed. I have refrained from cardiac rehab....I am beginning to go stir crazy! So, I had more blood work done this past Thursday and another echo done on Friday. Probably not a great idea...BUT....I am sitting here comparing the results from the echo done on December 23 with the one done on January 22 (Friday) as I wait for a call from my cardiologist to explain these results.
In the mean time, I have a couple of questions for all of you heart brothers and sisters:
First, I am curious if others have had pericarditis? If so, would you mind sharing your experience with me or pointing me to your journal?
Second, I am wondering if others had a decrease in their ejection fraction early on post valve repair/replacement? Were there any changes in your left and/or right ventricle size and function?
Thanks in advance for your responses!
Your heart sister, Jacqueline
I don't have experience related to your question but I hope you feel better soon.
Kelton Glewwe Hello, I was diagnosed with pericarditis last June. I had all the common symptoms and I suffered for ... Read more
Kelton Glewwe Hello, I was diagnosed with pericarditis last June. I had all the common symptoms and I suffered for about a month before I got an x-ray that lead to an echo, and then the diagnosis. The echo also showed I had a leaking bicuspid aortic valve that may or may not be related to the pericarditis. I had no idea I had a heart issue until that day. I was admitted into the hospital immediately for the pericarditis. I had 2cm of fluid around my heart and it was effecting my heart function. I had the normal tests, CAT scan, Echo, TEE. They pumped me full of antibiotics and IV fluids. I felt like a water balloon. I was responding well to treatment and sent home after 2 days with ibuprofen and the colchicine. I followed up with my GP a day later and she sent me back to the hospital immediately. My pericarditis was not getting better and I looked, "like sh*t." In the hospital, it was then decided they would drain the fluid with a needle. I the procedure the next morning in a surgical lab. I was awake for the procedure. They drained .5L from my pericardium. I felt immediate relief.
I was sent home 2 days later with the Ib and colchicine. A week later after a follow up with my cardiologist, we did a cardiac MRI. It showed a lot of inflammation. I was put on a steroid treatment. That prednisone is an amazing drug short term. I felt better right away. I was on the prednisone for about 4 months. I gained about 15 lbs, but I was feeling much better. I started at a high 60mg dose and slowly tapered off.
On December 10th I had the aortic valved replaced with a bovine tissue valve. I'm still in recovery from that, but I'm doing great. The pericarditis sucked, but it was my early warning for the bad valve. I was able to get that fixed before it did any serious damage to me heart or aorta.
Good luck. I hope you feel better soon.
John Schutte I had a bout of pericarditis that sent me back to the hospital for a week only one month after surger ... Read more
John Schutte I had a bout of pericarditis that sent me back to the hospital for a week only one month after surgery. In retrospect, I suspect a large (5 cm) effusion behind my heart is what pushed me into AFIB. Fortunately, my pericardium responded to the meds (colchicine and high dose ibuprofen). I was finally able to start cardiac rehab two weeks ago (10 weeks post op). Hang in there. Your patience and strength will help you get on the other side of this minor setback!
Jacqueline Cook Thanks guys for sharing and for the encouraging words. John, I too am on the same meds. I feel like t ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Thanks guys for sharing and for the encouraging words. John, I too am on the same meds. I feel like they are helping as my symptoms have disappeared. I see my cardiologist next week and will find out what he makes of my recent echo. My ejection fraction has plummeted. Not sure why. Thanks again for taking the time to respond!
The appointment with my cardiologist (Dr. Baily) went well. He is keeping a close eye on me, but he said that I can go to cardiac rehab as long as I don't over-do-it! ...Read more
The appointment with my cardiologist (Dr. Baily) went well. He is keeping a close eye on me, but he said that I can go to cardiac rehab as long as I don't over-do-it! He has extended my time on the ibuprofen from 21 days to one month. I go for more blood work and another echocardiogram on Jan. 21. My next follow-up appointment is scheduled for Feb. 2.
Congrats! Hope you continue to progress!!
Enrique K Hi Jacqueline, great news. Keep us updated on your next appointment. Take Care!
Emily Rowley That's good you and your Cardiologist are investigating to try help you. I was on Ibuprofen for a lon ... Read more
Emily Rowley That's good you and your Cardiologist are investigating to try help you. I was on Ibuprofen for a long time afterwards!
Michael Meyer Glad to hear you are doing/feeling better!
Michele Tracey Hi Jacqueline, can you check your guestbook tab? A few people have left you messages, in clouding me, ... Read more
Michele Tracey Hi Jacqueline, can you check your guestbook tab? A few people have left you messages, in clouding me, with some questions! Thank you and make God bless you with continued and amazing recovery!
Jacqueline Cook Thanks for the encouraging words! Michele...sorry about the guestbook tab...my response is out there ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Thanks for the encouraging words! Michele...sorry about the guestbook tab...my response is out there now... :o)
Wanda Mroz I'm sorry to hear you've had some problems but it sounds like you are on the road to recovery now! T ... Read more
Wanda Mroz I'm sorry to hear you've had some problems but it sounds like you are on the road to recovery now! Take it easy in rehab... One step at a time. Hope things continue to get better and better!
Bit of a set-back over the holidays. I had my 6 week post op check with my cardiologist on December 21. At that time, I was continuing to experience "drenching" ...Read more
Bit of a set-back over the holidays. I had my 6 week post op check with my cardiologist on December 21. At that time, I was continuing to experience "drenching" nights sweats. Concerned about possible infection, he sent me for a blood panel, blood cultures, a CT scan, and echocardiogram--all before heading to Pittsburgh on Dec. 23rd to spend Christmas with Christian's family. I left knowing that I wouldn't hear anything about the results until the following week.
Well, while we were in Pittsburgh, I developed significant pain in my left shoulder. By the 27th nothing worked to relieve the pain. On the morning of the 28th I got up around 5:30 am to go to the bathroom and experienced a stabbing pain in my left ribcage right below my breast area as well as some nausea (in addition to the existing shoulder pain). As I headed back to bed, I blacked out. This landed me in the ER at UPMC Pittsburgh. They decided to admit me and run the exact same tests that had been run here at home...along with a Cardiac MRI (instead of the CT Scan). I was discharged on December 29.
Fortunately, infection has been ruled out. Unfortunately, I do have Pericarditis. I have been placed on 600 mgs of ibuprofen 3 times a day along with .6 mg of Colchicine twice a day. Cardiac rehab has been postponed for the time being. I go tomorrow for more blood work; follow-up with my cardiologist on Jan. 7; and will do another Cardiac MRI in 6 weeks.
Praying that the inflammation around my heart subsides!
Talk about a recovery rollercoaster ride!
Enrique K Dear Jacqueline, I wish you a speedy recovery and trust that everything will be alright. Please keep ... Read more
Enrique K Dear Jacqueline, I wish you a speedy recovery and trust that everything will be alright. Please keep us updated and take care of yourself.
Sophia Ridley Jacqueline, I'm so sorry to hear about your pericarditis. I hope that the medication kicks in very qu ... Read more
Sophia Ridley Jacqueline, I'm so sorry to hear about your pericarditis. I hope that the medication kicks in very quickly and you feel better soon.
pino correale Now what a nightmare that must have been!!! Just think this way........that experience will make you ... Read more
pino correale Now what a nightmare that must have been!!! Just think this way........that experience will make you stronger in the future. I hope you will solve your situation quickly. Good luck Jacqueline
Anna Jones I hope you will feel better soon. Keep us posted on how you are doing.
Liz Burroughs I'm so sorry to hear about your recent setback. I hope you're feeling better now. Best wishes for a f ... Read more
Liz Burroughs I'm so sorry to hear about your recent setback. I hope you're feeling better now. Best wishes for a full recovery!
Kimberly Biddick so sorry to hear about your set back! praying it resolves soon! did they say the night sweats were ... Read more
Kimberly Biddick so sorry to hear about your set back! praying it resolves soon! did they say the night sweats were related to that??
Sounds like you monitored the situation closely and were able to make sure you got help when you need ... Read more
Sounds like you monitored the situation closely and were able to make sure you got help when you needed it. I hope you feel better soon. Thoughts for healing are being sent your way.
Wanda Mroz So sorry for your setback. Hoping you feel better very soon. At least you know what's going on now ... Read more
Wanda Mroz So sorry for your setback. Hoping you feel better very soon. At least you know what's going on now and have meds to help. Hugs.
Kelly Weisgarber Hope you feel better soon and can start enjoying the new year.
Steven A Husted DEAR LORD GIVE JACQUELINE YOUR HEALING TOUCH AND GIVE HER A SMOOTH RECOVERY IN JESUS NAME WE ASK AMEN ... Read more
Steven A Husted DEAR LORD GIVE JACQUELINE YOUR HEALING TOUCH AND GIVE HER A SMOOTH RECOVERY IN JESUS NAME WE ASK AMEN BEST WISHES AND PRAYERS YOUR HEART BROTHER STEVE (POPEYE)
Michael Meyer Sorry to hear about the pericarditis. My hope is this is a minor bump on your road to full recovery. ... Read more
Michael Meyer Sorry to hear about the pericarditis. My hope is this is a minor bump on your road to full recovery.
Jacqueline Cook Thanks so much to all for your support. Means so much to me!
I'm in post-op week five. Today I go to cardiac rehab for the very first time. Pretty excited about it!
Kimberly Biddick I started Wednesday!! I am excited to be getting into an exercise routine again. enjoy!!!!
Sophia Ridley You guys are so lucky. I received my letter from NHS yesterday and unlikely to start any exercise cla ... Read more
Sophia Ridley You guys are so lucky. I received my letter from NHS yesterday and unlikely to start any exercise class until February! I'm having to look into funding a private one (not cheap!) as insurers won't pay. There's a issue on the classification of 'rehab' :(
Steven A Husted i think cardio rehab is a blessing i entered it in phase 2 and now i am in phase 3 i hope for the res ... Read more
Steven A Husted i think cardio rehab is a blessing i entered it in phase 2 and now i am in phase 3 i hope for the rest of my life its great i meet new friends and keep my heart in shape
Michael Meyer Glad to hear your progress to rehab. Rehab will really provide you with confidence in the healing pr ... Read more
Michael Meyer Glad to hear your progress to rehab. Rehab will really provide you with confidence in the healing process.
I started on Wednesday and went again today! Really enjoying it! Feel productive afterwards and comfo ... Read more
I started on Wednesday and went again today! Really enjoying it! Feel productive afterwards and comforted to know I am being monitored while I exercise. Sophia, I hope you find a good option!
Question for the community....Have any of you experienced night sweats after surgery?
Sophia Ridley Yes, whilst in hospital I would get hot and then clammy. Now I get hot and cold, I start cold and the ... Read more
Sophia Ridley Yes, whilst in hospital I would get hot and then clammy. Now I get hot and cold, I start cold and then get uncomfortably hot and sweaty. I was wearing socks and when I take those off I feel better. Been told it's medication and aftereffects of surgery (seems to be a stock answer!). I'm awaiting blood test results for iron, electrolytes and thyroid (underactive already). Do suggest you have a chat with doctor, I'ld be interested to hear what they have to say.
Jean Raber Yes, my mother had internal "thermostat" problems after OHS. It seems to be pretty common. It goes aw ... Read more
Jean Raber Yes, my mother had internal "thermostat" problems after OHS. It seems to be pretty common. It goes away.
Jacqueline Cook Hi Jean and Sophia. Thanks for the comments. I have a call into Cleveland Clinic about it....I'm at 5 ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Hi Jean and Sophia. Thanks for the comments. I have a call into Cleveland Clinic about it....I'm at 5 weeks post op and I've been off my pain meds for about 2.5 weeks. I was told by CC in the beginning that this was typical with all the meds. It just seems like it is going on a lot longer than I anticipated. I have to get up 2 to 3 times in the night to change my pjs. Not getting much sleep as a result. Sophia, how long has it been since you had your surgery?
Sophia Ridley I'm 4wks post. Apart from in hospital I never needed to change my night wear during the night. It cer ... Read more
Sophia Ridley I'm 4wks post. Apart from in hospital I never needed to change my night wear during the night. It certainly needs washing daily! Do get them to check thyroid.
Sleep - oh! What joy that would be! I seem to never get comfortable, get up every 2 hrs and then morning comes and I'm out for the count :(
susan kotansky Yes...it's just one of those things than happens post surgery I'm told. I'm almost 3 months and it do ... Read more
susan kotansky Yes...it's just one of those things than happens post surgery I'm told. I'm almost 3 months and it doesn't happen anymore!!! yay. Have faith, it will pass along with many of your symptoms.
I did, especially when I first got home! My BP was out of whack. I also froze my family out of the ho ... Read more
I did, especially when I first got home! My BP was out of whack. I also froze my family out of the house because I was so hot. It has gotten better and we are now at a more comfortable temperature according to my family! Good luck!
Jean Raber Jacqueline, let us know what you find out from the doc, but my guess is that it'll just take a while ... Read more
Jean Raber Jacqueline, let us know what you find out from the doc, but my guess is that it'll just take a while to go away.
Jacqueline Cook Hi Jean and all...I saw my cardiologist on Monday and he was actually quite concerned about the night ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Hi Jean and all...I saw my cardiologist on Monday and he was actually quite concerned about the night sweats. He sent me for blood work, blood cultures, urinalysis, CT scan, and an echocardiogram. He managed to make all this happen before we left for Pittsburgh on the 23rd! I will let you know what the tests reveal. All I know right now is that my white blood cell count is elevated and he is concerned about possible infection.
Jean Raber I'm glad your doc's on it! Hoping for a speedy recovery.
Wanda Mroz I had them for a while. My surgeon said it was not uncommon to have them. Eventually they became le ... Read more
Wanda Mroz I had them for a while. My surgeon said it was not uncommon to have them. Eventually they became less frequent and are now gone.
Well, last week (post-op week 3) was filled with ups and downs. On the one hand, my surgical incisions are healing beautifully. I've experienced a burning sensation ...Read more
Well, last week (post-op week 3) was filled with ups and downs. On the one hand, my surgical incisions are healing beautifully. I've experienced a burning sensation at the primary incision site and was assured by a CC nurse that this is due to my nerves "coming back online". Uncomfortable...but progress none the less! Fortunately, that sensation began to subside over the weekend and I feel very little of it today. On the other hand, I had to make a trip to the local ER to have the areas where my tubes were inserted inspected. They are not healing as quickly and I was concerned about possible infection. They changed the steri-strips (sp) and sent me home with 7 days worth of antibiotics. I have a follow-up with my cardiologist's surgical team this week to check the wounds again. Another little bump in the road has been a consistently elevated resting heart rate. So CC increased my beta blocker from 50 mg to 75 mg on Friday. Not sure how long it take to actually make a difference. I am beginning to learn that the healing process is filled with peaks and valleys. Last week there were fewer peaks and more valleys. But I remain hopeful for whatever this weeks holds!
Congratulations on your recovery. I am learning as well that this is a process of patience. I hope yo ... Read more
Congratulations on your recovery. I am learning as well that this is a process of patience. I hope your recovery continues to have more peaks than valleys. Best wishes to you!
Christine Oliva Jacqueline, that incisional pain is 100% normal and as you can see it will get better. The nerves com ... Read more
Christine Oliva Jacqueline, that incisional pain is 100% normal and as you can see it will get better. The nerves coming back on-line seems to be a consequence of the surgery and you may have additional pain when you start rehab as I am now doing. Actually, the pain is a sign that you are healing normally and no pain means loss of nervous sensation which is not result you want. The good news any discomfort will be a lot less than those first few days in the hospital. Nothing that a Tylenol/pain tab cant handle-. Yea!
Keep your incision clean and dry, no direct hits with the shower head now, kind of trickle down & dry with separate towel if you can. Just remember less scaring with a nice dry incision. Good luck dear and keep on your path to recovery. Fingers crossed for you.
Kimberly Biddick Glad you are doing well! It's definitely a lesson in patience and we do have good days and then bad d ... Read more
Kimberly Biddick Glad you are doing well! It's definitely a lesson in patience and we do have good days and then bad days. Hopefully things will be on the up and up very soon all the way around for you!!
Liz Burroughs Best wishes for a complete recovery! I hope you feel better with each passing day!!
Tim Goff Good to hear you are on the mend! It can be a slow process full of strange beats, aches, etc, but on ... Read more
Tim Goff Good to hear you are on the mend! It can be a slow process full of strange beats, aches, etc, but on the whole it gets better every week. The hr may stay a bit higher than you are used to, just part of the deal. Mine used to be about 70 at rest yet now Im likely in the 80's. The cardiologist told me to get living and quit worrying about the hr. so I did. Now 9 months out.
I did have both an elevated heart rate during rehab (after coming off toprol). I also had some sinus tachycardia upon waking. I did call CC, but they indicated no information for me.
I went to the cardiologist and completed some thyroid testing bloodwork. Long story short the tachycardia resolved itself for me around 9-10 months and my resting heart rate is back to normal. As others have said it may take some time an patience.
Jacqueline Cook Thanks to all for sharing your experiences and for the encouraging words. Good to know that I am trac ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Thanks to all for sharing your experiences and for the encouraging words. Good to know that I am tracking along and that what I am experiencing is normal.
It is hard to believe that just two weeks ago today I was moved from Cleveland Clinic's ICU to their step-down unit. Looking back now...I am so glad that my ...Read more
It is hard to believe that just two weeks ago today I was moved from Cleveland Clinic's ICU to their step-down unit. Looking back now...I am so glad that my surgery date was pushed up from December 17 to November 11! I am so amazed at my recovery process thus far. I am less and less dependent on pain meds every day...and I have more mobility (at this juncture) than I ever imagined possible thanks to the surgeons who used the robotic approach to repair my mitral valve--what a modern medical miracle! Above all, I am most grateful today for all of you who have supported (and continue to support) me on this journey. So, Happy Thanksgiving my heart brothers and sisters, friends, and family. My heart is not only repaired but bursting with gratitude on this special day for you all!
Cheryl Shute Walter Jacqueline, so glad that your surgery was successful! Prayers and Thanksgiving wishes to you and you ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Jacqueline, so glad that your surgery was successful! Prayers and Thanksgiving wishes to you and your family. My surgery is next week.
Michael Meyer It is great to hear you had an excellent surgical outcome. Enjoy your Thanksgiving with family and g ... Read more
Michael Meyer It is great to hear you had an excellent surgical outcome. Enjoy your Thanksgiving with family and get plenty of rest.
Liz Burroughs Hi Jacqueline, I'm glad that you're doing so well! Happy Thanksgiving to you too! Yes, we all have so ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Hi Jacqueline, I'm glad that you're doing so well! Happy Thanksgiving to you too! Yes, we all have so much to be thankful for! Best wishes for a complete recovery! Take care. Liz
Tammy Pilcher Happy Thanksgiving, Jacqueline! So happy for you, heart sister! God bless!
Cheryl Smith So glad it was successful. Best wishes for continued recovery.
Melinda Queliz Jacqueline--I am looking to have my valve repaired at Cleveland Clinic as well and am just in the beg ... Read more
Melinda Queliz Jacqueline--I am looking to have my valve repaired at Cleveland Clinic as well and am just in the beginning stages getting all my records and trying to get in, I will be traveling from North Carolina. I am absolutely terrified of all of this. My biggest fears are: heart cath, chest tubes, IV in neck, heart wires. How much do those hurt? I hope to be drugged on some pretty good stuff through all that. I will say your recovery is making me feel a little at ease.
Jacqueline Cook Thanks to all for the comments and well wishes!
Phyllis Petersen I'm glad to read this. I'm heading to CC in October for, hopefully, the same procedure. I've heard go ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen I'm glad to read this. I'm heading to CC in October for, hopefully, the same procedure. I've heard good and bad, so I'll focus on your good outcome.
This is it. I'm headed to the hospital in about 15 minutes. 6am check in. 7:30-8:00 am surgery! I have to be honest. I am nervous but at peace (if it is possible ...Read more
This is it. I'm headed to the hospital in about 15 minutes. 6am check in. 7:30-8:00 am surgery! I have to be honest. I am nervous but at peace (if it is possible to hold these two in tension!) Sending a great big thanks to all of you-- my heart brothers and sisters. You are such a treasure! I am so grateful for the overwhelming amount of support you have offered me thus far in this process! Talk to you when I am on the healing side! xxoo
Whitney Nelson Sending good thoughts and prayers your way!!
Steven A Husted YOU ARE GOING TO DO FINE MAY THE GOOD LORD ABOVE SEE YOU THRU AND GIVE YOU A GREAT RECOVERY AMEN
Cheryl Batzing Jacqueline...I think I said the exact thing you did...nervous and at peace at the same time. Praying ... Read more
Cheryl Batzing Jacqueline...I think I said the exact thing you did...nervous and at peace at the same time. Praying for you now as you are in surgery!
Tammy Pilcher I was too Cheryl and Jacqueline, (nervous and at peace at the same time) and also happy to be gettin ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher I was too Cheryl and Jacqueline, (nervous and at peace at the same time) and also happy to be getting it overwith. Praying for a successful surgery and recovery! God bless!
Alma Mater May God bless you and your recover, Jacqueline!
Eddie Patton Same here. Calm but a lot of apprehension.
Emily Rowley My prayers are with you.
Good Bless You xox
Natalee LaJeunesse Hope things went well for you! Please let us know how you are doing:)
Jackie Owens Hope all went well! You'll be up and running in no time! :)
Angela Hicks Hey Jacqueline...I hope your surgery was a huge success. Sending prayers your way.
Jacqueline Cook Thanks to all for the thoughts, prayers, and well wishes! I am now on the healing side!!!
Well, we checked into a hotel last night near the Cleveland Clinic. My testing began this morning at 7:30 am. All went well...I was happy to finally be able ...Read more
Well, we checked into a hotel last night near the Cleveland Clinic. My testing began this morning at 7:30 am. All went well...I was happy to finally be able to drink water and get a bite to eat! I've shed a few tears today reading FB posts and text and listening to voicemail messages from family and friends....it's only 1:40 pm....so I am sure there are more emotional moments to come. I imagine that is not unusual under the circumstances. I am very impressed with the care I have received thus far. Tomorrow I will meet my cardiologist, surgeon, and the team.
Elaine Cutri I'll be thinking of you and your husband. I'll be in Cleveland in Dec. with my husband for my final p ... Read more
Elaine Cutri I'll be thinking of you and your husband. I'll be in Cleveland in Dec. with my husband for my final post op check with the surgeon. Best wishes!
Michele Tracey Praying for strength and peace for you my friend and for a speedy recovery! 😘
Steven A Husted prayers and best wishes for you and may the good lord above watch over you and give you a great surge ... Read more
Steven A Husted prayers and best wishes for you and may the good lord above watch over you and give you a great surgery and speedy recovery amen
Sophia Ridley I will be thinking of you and sending best wishes for straight forward surgery and recovery.
Doran Herritt Prayers for you. By this time next week you'll b well on your way to recovery!
Drn
Lynee Casper Will be thinking of you, wishing you positive results and a strong recovery.
Kelly Weisgarber Thinking of you Jacqueline and hoping all goes well. Hope that by the time I arrive early on the 16th ... Read more
Kelly Weisgarber Thinking of you Jacqueline and hoping all goes well. Hope that by the time I arrive early on the 16th you'll be on the upswing. Sending prayers.
Cathy Slipski Thinking and praying for you and a speedy recovery.
Emily Rowley
My prayers are with you and your family. I know pre-op testing can be long and very tiring. Hang in ... Read more
Emily Rowley
My prayers are with you and your family. I know pre-op testing can be long and very tiring. Hang in there, soon enough you'll be on your road to recovery :)
All the best,
Emily.
Thinking of you and your family! hioe everything goes smoothly!!
Jacqueline Cook Thanks to all for the well wishes, thoughts and prayers. Headed to bed now...tomorrow is going to be ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Thanks to all for the well wishes, thoughts and prayers. Headed to bed now...tomorrow is going to be another long day!
Michael Meyer You are in great hands. I will praying for a excellent outcome.
Headed to Ohio tomorrow. We will be staying with my Aunt Donna and Uncle Keith over the weekend. Pre-op testing begins at CC first thing Monday morning. We ...Read more
Headed to Ohio tomorrow. We will be staying with my Aunt Donna and Uncle Keith over the weekend. Pre-op testing begins at CC first thing Monday morning. We will meet with my surgeon and team on Tuesday. Downloading relaxation music and some of my favorite alternative artists to my iPhone. Hard to believe that this time next week I will be 2 days post-op!
Lynee Casper Good luck Jacqueline, thinking of you as you get closer, and that's a good idea about relaxation musi ... Read more
Lynee Casper Good luck Jacqueline, thinking of you as you get closer, and that's a good idea about relaxation music! I am collecting music too. God Bless,meet us posted.
Tim Goff Enjoy the weekend and the company of family. Many find the last few day's to be relaxing as all the d ... Read more
Tim Goff Enjoy the weekend and the company of family. Many find the last few day's to be relaxing as all the decisions have been made and nothing left to do but enjoy the time with those around you. Soon you will be on the other side of this and recovering. Best wishes for a smooth procedure.
Enrique K Great to hear that you have the support of your family. Sending you good vibes for a successful and u ... Read more
Enrique K Great to hear that you have the support of your family. Sending you good vibes for a successful and uneventful surgery!
Elaine Cutri Yes, and it's going to go just perfect! Best wishes.
Tammy Pilcher Prayers and best wishes, Jacqueline! You're going to do great, heart sister! God bless!
Jacqueline Cook Thanks everyone! I am so blessed by this community. My bags are packed...tomorrow we're off....
Firstly I hope your operation and recovery goes well :) I had my mitral valve repaired few years ago (but not using any robotic equipment).
The relaxation music is a good idea, I'm going to do that too, so I can listen to it in Hospital (also having mine on the 18th but in January)
Also about the bra, I'm ordering an Aztec Surgical Bra, you might like.
Best of Wishes,
Emily.
Michael Meyer Jacqueline:
Enjoy a relaxing weekend in preparation for the procedure. I will look forward to hearin ... Read more
Michael Meyer Jacqueline:
Enjoy a relaxing weekend in preparation for the procedure. I will look forward to hearing an excellent report from you and/or your family. My prayers will precede your surgery.
Jacqueline Cook Thanks for all the kind words, thoughts, and prayers! All went well with my first day of pre-surgical ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Thanks for all the kind words, thoughts, and prayers! All went well with my first day of pre-surgical testing....more tomorrow....
Hi heart sisters....I am scheduled to have robotic mitral valve repair on November 11. If all goes as planned my incisions will be on my right side. However, ...Read more
Hi heart sisters....I am scheduled to have robotic mitral valve repair on November 11. If all goes as planned my incisions will be on my right side. However, in the event that plans change and I would have a traditional or mini sternotomy. I was wondering if you could offer some post-surgery bra suggestions? Thanks in advance for you help!
Betsey Osgood I used a sports bra after about 2 weeks. I'm on the smaller side so no bra worked best! Also camiso ... Read more
Betsey Osgood I used a sports bra after about 2 weeks. I'm on the smaller side so no bra worked best! Also camisoles with the built in shelf bra are comfortable.
Elaine Cutri For a few weeks I wore a snug, not tight, camisole with cotton with spandex. The surgical NP said no ... Read more
Elaine Cutri For a few weeks I wore a snug, not tight, camisole with cotton with spandex. The surgical NP said no underwire until the tissue was healed (worked for me). After many weeks with the camisole, I found a sport bra 2 sizes larger that I was comfortable wearing. It went on from bottoms up. I had a full sternotomy and I did not want to cause injury or pain to myself by trying to negotiate it over my head. My husband always chuckled when he saw me working it on :-).
Tammy Pilcher The hospital gave me a front closure bra that I wore home and I sometimes slept in it, too. It just ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher The hospital gave me a front closure bra that I wore home and I sometimes slept in it, too. It just helped, until I had time to heal a little better, to have that support.
Jacqueline Cook Well, I got online and purchased a front closure lightweight bra (no wires) and three camisoles with ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Well, I got online and purchased a front closure lightweight bra (no wires) and three camisoles with the built in bra shelf. I went with one size larger on each. Thanks for the tips ladies!
Sophia Ridley :) I've just had my delivery too. Thankyou for reminding me to track down some camisoles. Have been b ... Read more
Sophia Ridley :) I've just had my delivery too. Thankyou for reminding me to track down some camisoles. Have been buying some lovely pjs too, guessed this was a good excuse !!!
susan kotansky I found the pressure from any bra very irritating so I've been wearing snug undershirts and am very c ... Read more
susan kotansky I found the pressure from any bra very irritating so I've been wearing snug undershirts and am very comfortable. Hopefully you won't even have to think about it if the robotic surgery is possible. I wish you the very best!!!
Mary K I found the surgical bra from the hospital to be very helpful with my breathing after surgery. Walmar ... Read more
Mary K I found the surgical bra from the hospital to be very helpful with my breathing after surgery. Walmart has all kids of sports bras. I bought a couple of front closure ones that were perfect.
Christine Oliva I used either a one size/roomy larger tank tops or cami with a sports bra. I don't need a lot of sup ... Read more
Christine Oliva I used either a one size/roomy larger tank tops or cami with a sports bra. I don't need a lot of support so it worked. Keep the fabric lite/wicking and definitely not binding or tight, no wires at all. Most important protect your incision and keep comfortable.
Kelly Weisgarber Hello I just wanted to say good luck to you and I'll be having my turn a few days after you. Nov. 16t ... Read more
Kelly Weisgarber Hello I just wanted to say good luck to you and I'll be having my turn a few days after you. Nov. 16th also at the Cleveland clinic. By the time I'm there you'll be on the upswing!
Melinda Hacker Front closure sports bra worked best for me.
Deborah Flaherty Good luck to you! I ordered a 3 pack of sport bras from Amazon. Very light and comfortable!
Connie Jewell Good luck with your upcoming surgery, Jacqueline. I'm 18 months post aortic valve replacement and bel ... Read more
Connie Jewell Good luck with your upcoming surgery, Jacqueline. I'm 18 months post aortic valve replacement and believe it or there are times I almost forget I even had it done. Going into it, it seems overwhelming but you'll see improvement faster than you think. As for the bra issue I normally wear an underwire, so that was out for sure. I found this one on Amazon called, Leading Lady Women's Sleep Leisure Cotton Bra, it worked great for me, and it's a front closure. Hope this helps with your question and again good luck with your surgery, you're in all our thoughts and prayers.
Jacqueline Cook Thanks so much ladies for all the suggestions and well wishes! Means so much!
So the countdown is on. So much to do and so little time. And now I have a cold dragging me down. Trying to fight it off with rest and fluids. These things ...Read more
So the countdown is on. So much to do and so little time. And now I have a cold dragging me down. Trying to fight it off with rest and fluids. These things typically have to run their course but I am wondering if I should call my PCM or nurse at CC and let them know? Any thoughts?
Elaine Cutri Call them. It would be a good idea to let them know.
Tammy Pilcher Jacqueline, it will probably be okay, but I'd call anyway. It will make you feel better to know they ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher Jacqueline, it will probably be okay, but I'd call anyway. It will make you feel better to know they know about it. Prayers and hugs, Tammy
Jacqueline Cook Thanks girls. I called CC and let them know and I am going to see my PCM to have my ears, nose, and t ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Thanks girls. I called CC and let them know and I am going to see my PCM to have my ears, nose, and throat and lungs checked tomorrow.
Tammy Pilcher That sounds good, Jacqueline. I hope everything checks out okay, heart sister!
Good morning heart brothers and sisters! The countdown is on. So much to do in so little time. Perhaps this is a good thing. Keeping busy preparing for surgery! ...Read more
Good morning heart brothers and sisters! The countdown is on. So much to do in so little time. Perhaps this is a good thing. Keeping busy preparing for surgery! I am painting my bedroom this morning so I can enjoy a fresh new color on the walls when I return.
Enrique K Hi Jacqueline, Many thoughts and prayers for you as you face your upcoming surgery. Hope to hear from ... Read more
Enrique K Hi Jacqueline, Many thoughts and prayers for you as you face your upcoming surgery. Hope to hear from you soon that all is well and you are on the mend. You painted your room and I bought a new bed. New Heart-New Bed!
Doran Herritt Stay busy! The waiting is the hardest part. Your gonna do great.
Prayers for peace for you, skill fo ... Read more
Doran Herritt Stay busy! The waiting is the hardest part. Your gonna do great.
Prayers for peace for you, skill for your medical team and a quick uneventful recovery leading to a long life.
Drn
Jacqueline Cook Yes! Doran. The waiting is the hardest part. Can you imagine if they had not been able to move me up? ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Yes! Doran. The waiting is the hardest part. Can you imagine if they had not been able to move me up? I'd be waiting until December 17! Enrique...well...this is a huge event in our lives right! Nice to do something special in preparation! Thanks guys for the encouraging words. I will keep you posted.
Jean Knappik Jacqueline, thoughts and prayers to you for a smooth surgery and great recovery!
Gerald Schaffer Best of luck with you're surgery and I think you're right in trying to keep busy.
Gregg Nissly Jacqueline, my prayers are with you. You will do great. Keep us posted.
My surgery at Cleveland Clinic has been moved up. I am now scheduled for November 11! Will be headed to Cleveland on November 7. Can't believe it is right around ...Read more
My surgery at Cleveland Clinic has been moved up. I am now scheduled for November 11! Will be headed to Cleveland on November 7. Can't believe it is right around the corner.
Jeanette Davidson You will be so relieved when it is over. Take good care of yourself and see yourself well. Reach out ... Read more
Jeanette Davidson You will be so relieved when it is over. Take good care of yourself and see yourself well. Reach out as often as you need to!❤️
Betsey Osgood You'll be on the healing side of this journey sooner than later! Praying the day's ahead include rel ... Read more
Betsey Osgood You'll be on the healing side of this journey sooner than later! Praying the day's ahead include relaxation, acceptance and strength. You got this...keep us posted. Interested in hearing about the robotic MVR experience!
Doran Herritt Great news. Get it over with and get on living.
Prayers
Drn
Jacqueline Cook Thanks for the encouraging word, Jeanette, Betsey, and Doran. Can't wait to be on "the healing side o ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Thanks for the encouraging word, Jeanette, Betsey, and Doran. Can't wait to be on "the healing side of this journey"! You are all inspirations to me!!!
After much research, several consultations, weighing my surgical procedure options, and prayer...I have decided to have my mitral valve repaired by Dr. Marc ...Read more
After much research, several consultations, weighing my surgical procedure options, and prayer...I have decided to have my mitral valve repaired by Dr. Marc Gillinov at the Cleveland Clinic. He was actually the first of the four surgeons to review my case. I didn't mention him at length in my earlier journal postings because I did not have a face-to-face consult with him. His nurse simply called with his recommendations and to inform me of available surgery dates. When I started this whole process, it seemed a bit odd to schedule a surgery without meeting with the surgeon first (even if he is at CC). Nevertheless, CC was always on my radar as an option.
I guess what really helped me come full circle was discovering that I am a candidate for robotic mitral valve repair. Several weeks ago I was leaning toward a mini-sternotomy, but after learning more about robotics in the hands of the right surgeon, I decided that this is the way I wish to proceed. I feel pretty confident that any of the surgeons I interviewed could have done a great job at repairing my valve using the methods they do the most and feel most comfortable with. But since I am going to go with a robotic repair, I feel that Marc Gillinov is clearly the best choice for me. I am scheduled for pre-op testing on November 24 and 25. My husband and I will meet with Dr. Gillinov and the surgical team while we are there. My surgery is scheduled for December 17.
I finally have the peace that many of you have spoken about. Thanks so much to all of you in the HVS community who have shared your experiences, offered thoughts, prayers, encouraging words as I've moved through this part of the process. I could not have arrived at this place of peace without you!
Elaine Cutri It sounds like a big sigh of relief for you and your husband. Best wishes!
Kimberly Biddick Being comfortable with your surgeon and decision makes all the difference in the world. Best wishes ... Read more
Kimberly Biddick Being comfortable with your surgeon and decision makes all the difference in the world. Best wishes to you!!
Jacqueline Cook Thanks for the affirmation ladies! Elaine, how was your experience at CC?
Elaine Cutri It was very positive. I felt safe in their care. They are very experienced and use it to make little ... Read more
Elaine Cutri It was very positive. I felt safe in their care. They are very experienced and use it to make little improvements in your immediate care that lend itself to a faster recovery. The nurses were super at monitoring my care, keeping me comfortable and in good spirits.
I had a slight downturn just after discharge, fluid build up behind my right lung, due to having previous OHS surgeries. It was annoying, not life threatening. I ended up being readmitted to CC. I'm on Coumadin so they had to wean me off, do the 20 minute procedure, and get me back up to therapeutic levels before discharge. Once that was gone my recovery picked up steam and a few days later I was on a plane heading back to California. I'm only sharing this with you because it was a hiccup that was handled well. It sounds like the robotic procedure will be much easier on your body. I'll keep good thoughts and prayers going your way. - Elaine
Jacqueline Cook Thanks so much for sharing Elaine. Very encouraging. Thanks for the thoughts and prayers!
Good morning heart sisters and brothers. We met with Dr. Vinay Badhwar at UPMC Pittsburgh yesterday morning. He indicated that I am the "perfect" candidate ...Read more
Good morning heart sisters and brothers. We met with Dr. Vinay Badhwar at UPMC Pittsburgh yesterday morning. He indicated that I am the "perfect" candidate for robotic mitral valve repair. Robotic repair has become the "standard procedure" at UPMC for patients (like me) who have an isolated mitral valve issue. He has a 99.5-100% repair success margin. UPMC offers traditional post-op care where you go from CCU to a step-down unit and then you are discharged. The length of stay is usually 3-4 days.
So now I am faced with a very difficult decision. Both Dr. Horvath and Dr. Badhwar are exceptional surgeons with stellar reputations. Both are offering me 99-100% chance of repair. Dr. Horvath feels that the mini-sternotomy will achieve the (safest) and best repair and Badhwar feels the robotic will.
I am torn and welcome your thoughts.
Jean Raber If it were me (and I realize you're not), I would assume that the surgeons are recommending the proce ... Read more
Jean Raber If it were me (and I realize you're not), I would assume that the surgeons are recommending the procedures they feel most comfortable with. Given that they both have great reps and stellar outcomes, I'd go with what you think is best for you. You probably can't lose either way.
John Noriega Understand your concern. If this were me, I believe I'd go with their decision based on the fact that ... Read more
John Noriega Understand your concern. If this were me, I believe I'd go with their decision based on the fact that this is their speciality. The success rate is way up there to not consider it. Always remember that the final decision is yours! Onward & Upward!
Steven A Husted if it were me i would go with the mini sternotomy god forbid if something were to go wrong i would ra ... Read more
Steven A Husted if it were me i would go with the mini sternotomy god forbid if something were to go wrong i would rather have a human there than a robot just my opinion but with modern technology who knows what a robot can do it is a hard choice i know best wishes and prayers pray about it the lord will help you decide
Cheryl Batzing Jacqueline, I had a side entry mitral valve repair (not robotic, but minimally invasive none the less ... Read more
Cheryl Batzing Jacqueline, I had a side entry mitral valve repair (not robotic, but minimally invasive none the less) last December. Also had a high success rate. Only thing I was unaware of until afterwards is the recovery process. I am a total baby and was not told the initial pain/recovery....until the ICU nurses told me my form of surgery was the most initial pain. Yikes! Probably would have chosen the same surgery again, but that would have been good to know in advance! Prayers for your decision.
Had a really good consult with Dr. Keith Horvath at Johns Hopkins Suburban Hospital. I was really impressed with the way in which he discussed exactly what ...Read more
Had a really good consult with Dr. Keith Horvath at Johns Hopkins Suburban Hospital. I was really impressed with the way in which he discussed exactly what needed to be done to repair my mitral valve. They have 99-100 % track record with repairing mitral valves and he indicated that he is confident that I would fall within this percentile. That made me feel really good. This is not to say that we didn't discuss alternatives (tissue/mechanical valves) in the event that something "out of the ordinary" happened and he could not repair the valve. We also discussed three minimally invasive approaches to surgery: mini sternotomy; mini thoracotomy; and port-access/robotic. At this juncture I am leaning toward the mini-sternotomy. I was also very impressed with Dr. Horvath's philosophy of patient care. At their hospital cardiac and critical care patients share the same unit. There are 34 private rooms. I would be in the same room from the time I come out of surgery until I am discharged from the hospital. This is the first time I have ever heard of such a thing--very appealing. So, one more consult to go before I make my final decision, but as of right now JH is at the top of my list.
Tim Goff Sounds like you are making good progress with confidence in your decisions. That will surely help to ... Read more
Tim Goff Sounds like you are making good progress with confidence in your decisions. That will surely help to ease or eliminate most of your apprehensions going into surgery. Keep up the good work and best wishes your way
Tammy Pilcher I'm glad you had a good appt. with your doctor, Jacqueline. I had a mini-sternotomy (3 inches) and h ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher I'm glad you had a good appt. with your doctor, Jacqueline. I had a mini-sternotomy (3 inches) and have been very pleased with mine. It means so much to have a great feeling about your surgeon and hospital. It was a huge relief for me when I met my surgeon and immediately felt like I was in the right place! We walked into the lobby of his office and hanging on the wall in a prominent place was a huge painting of surgeons performing a surgery and Jesus was standing with them with His hand on the shoulder of one of the surgeons. I told my husband that we were in the right place. Then when we met my surgeon, we both knew he was the one we wanted to do it. God had worked everything out perfectly for me. He will for you too. God bless!
Shirley Turner Confidence in your medical team.. I am happy for you. Hugs Shirley
I had my heart cath yesterday and other than almost blacking out in the bed while they were prepping me for the procedure, all went well! Lol! I am such a wimp ...Read more
I had my heart cath yesterday and other than almost blacking out in the bed while they were prepping me for the procedure, all went well! Lol! I am such a wimp when it comes to needles. The had to do an iv in both arms because they did the cath through my arm instead of the groin. They opted to give me a dose of adivan to take the edge off. Good call! lol! ANYWAY....no blockages!!!!! This means I will be a candidate for minimally invasive surgery. We go for the first of 4 surgical consults tomorrow.
Ray Mack Sounds like you are on the right path. It's great that you have NO BLOCKAGES, based on our family his ... Read more
Ray Mack Sounds like you are on the right path. It's great that you have NO BLOCKAGES, based on our family history. Stay in touch. Love ya, Dad
donnelle arnold Good morning Jac, the smile on your face in your pic yesterday must have been before the cath began o ... Read more
donnelle arnold Good morning Jac, the smile on your face in your pic yesterday must have been before the cath began or after the adivan! Love and prayers continuously.
Jacqueline Cook Actually the photo was taken after everything was done. I was a little still a little loopy.
I have consults scheduled with Dr. Mubashir Mumtaz with Pinnacle Health (Harrisburg, PA) Sept. 25; Dr. Keith Horvath (Johns Hopkins Surburban, Bethesda, MD) ...Read more
I have consults scheduled with Dr. Mubashir Mumtaz with Pinnacle Health (Harrisburg, PA) Sept. 25; Dr. Keith Horvath (Johns Hopkins Surburban, Bethesda, MD) Oct. 2; and Dr. Vinay Badhwar (UPMC Pittsburgh, PA) Oct. 12. I am curious if anyone in our community is familiar with any of these surgeons and/or hospitals? If you have had surgery by them or in their facility I would love to hear about your experience. Thanks in advance for sharing your thoughts!
Tracy Herman Dr Badhwar replaced my aortic valve Feb 11 2014 at UPMC Presbyterian in Oakland
Cannot say enough abo ... Read more
Tracy Herman Dr Badhwar replaced my aortic valve Feb 11 2014 at UPMC Presbyterian in Oakland
Cannot say enough about Dr. Badhwar and his team. Surgery was on Tuesday went home Saturday. Had a mini sternomy. My photos show incision 24 hrs after and what it looks like today. Did not really experience any pain Recovery was uneventful. I would be more than happy to try and answer any of your questions or concerns
Jacqueline Cook Hi Tracy. Thanks for the note. How did you come to decide on Dr. Badhwar?
Tracy Herman Reading his bio. Also suggested by my cardiologist at UPMC Pittsburgh. I also considered going to Cl ... Read more
Tracy Herman Reading his bio. Also suggested by my cardiologist at UPMC Pittsburgh. I also considered going to Cleveland clinic but decided on Dr. Badhwar
I received a call this afternoon. I am scheduled to see Dr. Mumtaz with Pinnacle Cardiovascular Institute on September 25 in Harrisburg. Wow! Didn't expect ...Read more
I received a call this afternoon. I am scheduled to see Dr. Mumtaz with Pinnacle Cardiovascular Institute on September 25 in Harrisburg. Wow! Didn't expect to get in with him so quickly...just 2 days after my Heart Cath is done. My referral authorizations should be good to go tomorrow. Will give Cleveland Clinic (Dr. Gillinov) and UPMC (Dr. Badhwar) a call in the morning and see about getting on their calendars.
Jacqueline Cook Thanks, Michael! I am now scheduled with Dr. Badhwar on October 12. As you shared, Cleveland Clinic h ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Thanks, Michael! I am now scheduled with Dr. Badhwar on October 12. As you shared, Cleveland Clinic has quite a process before you can even schedule an appointment. Seems I am going to have to wait until I have my heart cath complete before I send off all of my records. Seems they also like to do everything electronically. I left a message to speak with someone and have yet to hear back. Any tips on speeding up the process?
Jacqueline Cook Michael. Please disregard the previous note. Interestingly enough, I got a call from a lady named Mar ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Michael. Please disregard the previous note. Interestingly enough, I got a call from a lady named Mary Jo at Cleveland Clinic yesterday afternoon. Apparently, my cardiologist sent them everything they need (to date). She gave me her direct number and told me to call her back if I don't hear anything by Friday. The ball is rolling! :-)
Went follow-up with my cardiologist on Friday (Sept. 4). He is prepping me for surgery. I go for a chest x-ray and blood work today (Sept. 9) and a Heart Cath ...Read more
Went follow-up with my cardiologist on Friday (Sept. 4). He is prepping me for surgery. I go for a chest x-ray and blood work today (Sept. 9) and a Heart Cath (yikes!) on September 23. I spent most of the morning (yesterday) on the phone with my insurance company and then my PCM's nurse trying to get the referrals I need to see the surgeons on my "short list". Hopefully those authorizations will be in place today and I will be able to call and schedule appointments. My cardiologist also sent a request for a consult with the surgeon in their group that does mitral valve repair. He is located in Harrisburg (about 30 minutes from us). Praying for wisdom in selecting a surgeon and peace about it. Such a big decision.
Jeanette Davidson Jacqueline~
Sounds like you are getting all of your ducks in a row. It is a huge decision , so I hope ... Read more
Jeanette Davidson Jacqueline~
Sounds like you are getting all of your ducks in a row. It is a huge decision , so I hope you find confidence in all of your choices. Keep praying. I don't usually pray for myself. But three months prior to my surgery , every day I had one prayer , which was "no complications." My prayers were answered. And let's expect that yours will be too ! Stay strong and keep reaching out!💕
Tammy Pilcher Wishing you all the best, Jacqueline, and keeping you in my prayers. God bless!
Tim Goff Glad you updated us and here's to hoping all your tests are routine and easy. Instead of the heart ca ... Read more
Tim Goff Glad you updated us and here's to hoping all your tests are routine and easy. Instead of the heart cath which my surgeon felt was too invasive they injected me with a dye, then a small dose of nitro while taking an mri of sorts. It generated a cool picture of my cardiac area! Best of luck selecting a surgeon and center it is a process worth going through. Keep us updated.
Judith Collins Duane is right heart cath. is nothing to worry about.
Jacqueline Cook Thanks so much for the kind words, support, and prayers!
Michael Meyer Glad to hear you are proceeding with the preparation. I hope the surgeon visits go well and you have ... Read more
Michael Meyer Glad to hear you are proceeding with the preparation. I hope the surgeon visits go well and you have a clear decision about who to select for your surgery.
I am curious about the process of finding a surgeon? I have three in mind so far and plan to make appointments with them after I have my follow-up appointment ...Read more
I am curious about the process of finding a surgeon? I have three in mind so far and plan to make appointments with them after I have my follow-up appointment with my cardiologist on September 4. I've been hearing some negative things about having surgery done at a "teaching hospital." Several friends in the medical field and even my PCP (whom I saw today) said that the likelihood of a resident or fellow preforming the surgery is high. That sounds pretty scary to me! How do you insure that the surgeon you select will actually be doing your surgery and not just there as the "attending" physician. Do you have to make a special request?
Rosemary Resler Jacqueline I asked my surgeon if he was going to do the surgery and he assured me that HE was the one ... Read more
Rosemary Resler Jacqueline I asked my surgeon if he was going to do the surgery and he assured me that HE was the one doing the surgery. I had though about the same thing having been in teaching hospitals before. Bad enough we have to have this done without worrying over WHO is going to do it!
Gerald Schaffer Write on the authorization form that the surgery is only to be performed by (insert your doctor's nam ... Read more
Gerald Schaffer Write on the authorization form that the surgery is only to be performed by (insert your doctor's name)
John Jones I had mine done at a teaching hospital and was assured that my surgeon would do the surgery. I don't ... Read more
John Jones I had mine done at a teaching hospital and was assured that my surgeon would do the surgery. I don't know if he did or not, I was asleep.
Kenny Knox I think it's a fair question to ask. Some of the best hospitals are teaching hospitals. The Clevela ... Read more
Kenny Knox I think it's a fair question to ask. Some of the best hospitals are teaching hospitals. The Cleveland Clinic is a teaching hospital and I had a great experience.
Rosemary Resler Gerald, that is a great idea, hope I remember to do that.
Daniel Spurgeon I had mine done at UCLA and my surgeon did the sewing and cutting on the aorta. I'm sure the chest o ... Read more
Daniel Spurgeon I had mine done at UCLA and my surgeon did the sewing and cutting on the aorta. I'm sure the chest opening and closing was delegated to another surgeon.
Michael Meyer Jacqueline: Just ask. My surgeon repaired the heart valve. The chest incisions and closures are li ... Read more
Michael Meyer Jacqueline: Just ask. My surgeon repaired the heart valve. The chest incisions and closures are likely to be done by a fellow. I did not find that to be a problem. My surgery was done at Cleveland Clinic.
Rita Savelis Teaching hospitals are wonderful places. Surgeons who are good enough to instruct others are the ones ... Read more
Rita Savelis Teaching hospitals are wonderful places. Surgeons who are good enough to instruct others are the ones you want.
Jacqueline Cook Thanks to all for the comments...very helpful!
Tracy Herman I saw your question about Dr.Badhwar. He replaced my stenotic aortic valve on 2/14 at UPMC Presbyter ... Read more
Tracy Herman I saw your question about Dr.Badhwar. He replaced my stenotic aortic valve on 2/14 at UPMC Presbyterian in Oakland. Very experienced surgeon and his team is wonderful. I would be happy to answer any questions I can
Jacqueline Cook Thanks so much Tracy. I would love to talk with you about your experience. My husband's entire family ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Thanks so much Tracy. I would love to talk with you about your experience. My husband's entire family (or just about) lives in Pittsburgh. It would be a great place logistically speaking for me to have the surgery. My email is jrcook3301@me.com. Perhaps we could exchange contact information and chat by phone?
Meredith Bray Ask friends and family! You'll be surprised how many people have had heart surgery!
So I had the TEE done on Wednesday (August 19). Over-all it was a very good experience. The team at West Shore Hospital in Mechanicsburg, PA were awesome. They ...Read more
So I had the TEE done on Wednesday (August 19). Over-all it was a very good experience. The team at West Shore Hospital in Mechanicsburg, PA were awesome. They took excellent care of me. It was a long day though. I got there at 10:15 am and didn't leave until 3 pm. I was able to express my concerns about the first cardiologist that I saw in their group and was assured that I could see anyone I wished. They told me that it was important that I feel comfortable with the cardiologist who would be following me throughout this process and long after as well. Yeah! The cardiologist, Dr. Bailey, (who did the procedure) came in to meet me long before I was ever wheeled back for the TEE. He was very warm and made lots of eye contact...lol! My husband and I felt a connection with him immediately. After the test was complete, he spend some time showing us the echocardiogram and explaining exactly what is going on in my heart. The regurgitation is indeed severe. It seems that one of the "parachute" strings is actually broken and flails every time my mitral valve tries to close. This is a new development or perhaps the prior transthoracic echocardiograms (done in Seattle) didn't show the "flailing." Either way, there is a gap now where the valve attempts to close hence the severe regurgitation. He said that he would like to see me in 2 weeks (that is if I wanted to see him again!) And so I am set for a September 4 appointment. My nurse said she would take care of canceling the October 5 follow-up with the original cardiologist. When I meet again with Dr. Bailey we will discuss hospitals, surgeons, and procedures. He will also get me set up for a heart cath. Feeling like things are starting to move fast....
Jeanette Davidson Sounds like a good experience. Most importantly, I'm really happy that you made a connection with th ... Read more
Jeanette Davidson Sounds like a good experience. Most importantly, I'm really happy that you made a connection with the cardiologist. It's going to make the world of difference for you. As you go through this process you will become more and more prepared for surgery. One step at a time Heart sister💕
Jacqueline Cook Thanks Jeanette! Yes, "one step at a time"....I need to keep reminding myself of that so I don't get ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Thanks Jeanette! Yes, "one step at a time"....I need to keep reminding myself of that so I don't get overwhelmed. Nice to know I have a "heart sister" cheering me on. :o)
Jean Raber Glad you got good info! My TEE was quick, painless, and it was done to determine whether the MV regur ... Read more
Jean Raber Glad you got good info! My TEE was quick, painless, and it was done to determine whether the MV regurg was "severe" or "moderate." I woke up groggy and the cardiologist smiled and said, "moderate, we'll talk more at your follow-up in a couple of days." Then I got more of the details and the news that the valve could probably be repaired rather than replaced and etc.
Different tactic, but there are lots of ways to be a good doctor, no?
Terry Shermeister Jacqueline Hi, I'm Terry. Just read your journal and the TEE experience. Just writing because I rem ... Read more
Terry Shermeister Jacqueline Hi, I'm Terry. Just read your journal and the TEE experience. Just writing because I remember when I first went in for mine. It started early March, I had my MVR on May 14th, and now am 14 weeks post-op. I'm biking, swimming, walking, lifting weights and doing yoga. I had the Chordae repaired, my posterior leaflet sectioned and a ring placed to strengthen the Mitral Valve, like a "door frame. My surgeon was fantastic. When I had my surgery I had no symptoms, my heart function was normal, but I did have severe regurg. I agree with Jeanette and Jean. Ask questions, advocate, and trust your feelings.
Tammy Pilcher Prayers and best wishes, Jacqueline! I'm glad you're one step closer to getting your heart fixed! G ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher Prayers and best wishes, Jacqueline! I'm glad you're one step closer to getting your heart fixed! God bless!
Steven A Husted yes you have lots of heart sisters and heart brothers here and we are all praying for you the lord wi ... Read more
Steven A Husted yes you have lots of heart sisters and heart brothers here and we are all praying for you the lord will take care of you steve (popeye)
Cheryl Batzing Jacqueline, your story sounds very similar to mine. I had a mitral valve "parachute" cord "broken/fla ... Read more
Cheryl Batzing Jacqueline, your story sounds very similar to mine. I had a mitral valve "parachute" cord "broken/flailing" as well, and severe regurgitation that was found last mid October, and had minimally invasive mitral valve repair surgery mid Dec. I'm doing well now at 8 months post op. Please ask any questions you have and know you have a huge supportive community here! Prayers to you!
Tim Goff Good that now they, and you, have a clearer picture of the situation. I too had some ruptured chordae ... Read more
Tim Goff Good that now they, and you, have a clearer picture of the situation. I too had some ruptured chordae to go with the tattered valve and the swollen atrium. The surgeon too care of all of is as will yours to repair the valve and replace the chordae. It is amazing and life saving work. Most of this is "mental" preparation on the front side so hang in there with positive thoughts that you are lucky they spotted it and will take care of you.
Jacqueline Cook I do not know how I would be managing everything going on with my heart without you all!!!! I wish w ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook I do not know how I would be managing everything going on with my heart without you all!!!! I wish we had the ability to make individual comments below each person's post. (If we do and I just haven't discovered it yet, please give me some instructions on how.) Instead, I am sending warm thoughts and big hugs to each of you individually in this "collective" post.