James's Posts

I am not too familiar with this procedure but check out the learning center. Do you really need surgery this quickly? Maybe you do, but just getting a few more days to talk to 2-3 surgeons and get their opinion helps a lot. They wouldn't let me out or the hospital until I promised I just need a few days to figure out what surgeon I should go with. This really helped a lot. https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/learning-center.php

Hi James, I had my aortic valve and aortic root replaced at the Cleveland Clinic 3 years ago at age 55. For me, they did the root because it was very narrow (not getting good blood flow) and replacing it allowed for a larger valve to be put in (bovine) which will hopefully allow it to last longer and will allow for TAVR in the future. If you have any questions don't hesitate to reach out. Sending my best your direction ❤️

It's not the same, but I had my aortic root narrowed from 40 to 31mm & reinforced as part of my Ross 10 months ago (the 'Seattle Shawl' procedure). I think my recovery has been a little slower because of it. My heart has to pump out through a smaller hole. This means part of my recovery has been restrengthening my heart as a muscle and that's why my exercise is still at 85% - 90% of pre-surgery. That said, I'm doing extremely well. My surgeon and my cardiologist have both given me good bills of health and I'm now seeing each and doing tests annually.

I got a cow valve (and repair of an aortic aneurysm) almost 2 years ago! I'm almost 67 and all went well. My surgery was on a Monday and I was out of the hospital on Friday. I was able to get back into my normal routine very quickly. Never experienced any pain, although some parts, like removal of the breathing and chest tubes, were uncomfortable. Good luck with your surgery and keep us updated.

I had my aortic valve replaced with a bovine valve and had my aorta repaired in May 2023. As I approach my 3 year anniversary I can say that I fully recovered in 3 months ans continue to live every day with no restrictions. I will be 75 in August and haven't missed out on anything. Have faith in your surgical and care team, follow their instructions precisely and keep a positive attitude. Your attitude is critical to your recovery and long term quality of life. You'll get through this. Good luck!

Good luck James, I was in a very similar situation to you this time last year and the good news is that I had the surgery and recovered quickly. I am less than 12 months on, and I can do everything that I could before and was able to run a half marathion within 4 months of having my surgery. Good luck for your recovery sir.