John's Journal

Jim Rizzo  Hi John.  There are pros/cons to each valve, given the specific patient situation. I had surgery on 5/13 and chose the On-X valve.  There's a lot of guidance on this website to help with your decision.  I'm happy to answer any questions.

Marie Myers  Many decisions are made with your age in mind. I was 63 at the time of my surgery, and after much back-and -forth thinking, i went with the tissue valve. Hardest decision i ever had to make…

Paul Lebel  I chose a bovine mitral over manufactured.  Didn't want to be on blood thinners  the rest of my life.

Lynne Anderson  I'm 65 and went with the bio valve.  I too didn't want to be on blood thinners due to my very active lifestyle.  My surgeon/surgical team recommended to bio valve.  They said IF it had to be replaced in the future they could put in a new one via TAVR.

Rose Madura  Hi John. I was 59 and chose a tissue valve. It's a very personal to choice. I always tell people to do research, ask questions, make a decision and run with it. Don't second guess.  Godspeed.

Allen Carkner  Hello John, I was 24 at the time and chose the Ross procedure to replace my BAV due primarily to stenosis. Age is a large factor regarding decision making. I opted for the Ross procedure primarily because of the lack of warfarin use and that some studies show age matched survival closer to the normal population compared to other valve options. I also decided that risk of re-operation is relatively low at 15, 20, even 25 years in some journal articles. It has been good so far at about 15 months post op. Feel free to ask questions. Mechanical valve’s can be great for the right person. Take care!