LINDA's Journal

Susan Lynn  Linda - I had a different procedure, but my BP also increased about 2 1/2 years after surgery. I'm on extended release metoprolol and lisinopril. I was on 2.5 mg of lisinopril, but increased it to 5 mg about two weeks ago. We're both considered to be on small dosages. I think you can safely take that amount, but it never hurts to ask your cardiologist if you're worried. Please let me know how you make out. ❤

Joy Vera  I have a bovine valve & an equine valve before that. There was no caution given regarding calcium either time.

Rose Madura  I have and Edwards tissue valve and was advised to take only 500 mg of calcium for my Osteopena. My GP wanted me to take 1200 mg but cardiologist said no - no more than 500 mg.

Marie Myers  I am doing the same as Rose. I used to take 1200 mg/day, but have cut back to hopefully minimize the amount of calcified plaque being deposited in my heart and vessels.

LINDA ROBERTS  Thanks for sharing. I have stopped taking calcium supplements but eat tons of cheese and foods with calcium. I do have osteopenia.

Civita Fahey  Hi Linda.. hope you are well.. I was told the same as Marie and Rose, but, I like you eat a lot of cheese so.. not taking calcium supplements at this time. Though the cardiologist did say they have no evidence that taking calcium will add or diminish the longevity of the valve.

leslie terjesen  I read that also somewhere and keep meaning to ask my cardiologist. Always try to get the most nutrients out of what I eat which makes me focus more on my diet. Although....I could do better!

Catie B  Hi Linda. I've had several MRI's since my surgery. I have a bovine tissue valve and they had made it clear to me before I left the hospital, that I could have MRIs with no safety issues.

John Lant  I have had several MRI since my Aortic valvecm was replaced with a Inspire Resila Valve 14 months ago. I just show the MRI Tech the card and they tell me it is not a problem at all.

LINDA ROBERTS  Thanks, I will show them my card. This sight is so wonderful with people sharing for it is so helpful.

Susan Lynn  Linda - I had a mitral valve repair, but at my one year appointment, I asked if I had a greater probability of developing stenosis (no), if the ring placed around my valve would collect plaque (I was told by my PCP, yes. Surgeon said, no), and finally, I asked about 'pump head' which my surgeon quickly dismissed even though I was having difficulty remembering names and certain words. That's pretty much all I had to ask. Good luck and congratulations on your anniversary! ❤

John Lant  It has been 14 months since my aortic valve replacement and with My latest MRI my cardiologist told me that my heart just loves my new valve and it is functioning perfectly.

LINDA ROBERTS  Thank you so much. Marie, thanks for all your support about my dental issues which I am happy to have behind me. Hope you are doing well.

Dan Vechiola  Happy to hear your dental issue is behind you Linda. I remember when it happened and know it has been a big weight on your shoulders. Congratulations on overcoming another health obstacle and marching forward!

Susan Lynn  Linda - Wow - seven months seem to have flown by. I'm thrilled to read that you're doing well and commend you on your vigilance. Smart thinking - we need to be aware how everything may affect our newly repaired hearts.
Keeping you and your two friends with upcoming surgeries in my thoughts. Continued success with your recovery!

LINDA ROBERTS  Thank you, Susan. One friend is already out of ICU and doing well. Hoping to hear soon about my other friend. It is amazing how many people need heart surgery and the advances made to save lives.

Dan Vechiola  Great job! Nice to hear you are doing well. Cardiac rehab was great because I never missed. Its different when you are on your own. Keep up the great work Linda!

LINDA ROBERTS  Thank you to Adam for creating this site where others can share their journey and my heart sisters and brothers who have been a great help to me.

Catie B  So glad your heart has settled down so you could stop warfarin and amiodarone. I know that's a real relief!

Rob Sparling  I am on metoprolol (nothing else, though). Dizziness is a known side effect, but I have only been dizzy once or twice and only in the last week, not at all in the four weeks before. My heart rate and BP were managed by metoprolol while in the hospital and it continues to do the job with BP hovering around 115/75. Resting heart rate has dropped from the high 70’s into low to mid-70’s and now into high 60’s in terms of bests per minute. I think that is the walking, passage of time and the meds.

The increased BP you are experiencing since surgery would make sense — your heart was worked over before and during surgery — but I would think the metoprolol would straighten it out. The other meds are not wimpy, so not sure what the whole cocktail brings to life. Good luck! I hope this helps!

Susan Lynn  Mine was higher, too. I was told my heart had to get used to the increased blood flow. I am off all medication, now, and my bp is normal. I guess it's part of the healing process. Hang in there

Susan Lynn  Linda - I was on a low dose of metoprolol for six months. I used to also get dizzy especially upon standing. Better days are ahead.

LINDA ROBERTS  Thanks for all the input. My blood pressure systolic number will go up to 150-180 but diastolic stays in the area of the 80's. It is the top number that worries me. Also, the heart rate is in 40's and 50's but with exercise will go up to 90's. Since I was never on heart medications before surgery, I think there are lots of adjustments to get things correct. I am so grateful to be on the other side of heart surgery and have a normal functioning aorta valve. Thank you to Adam for creating this site and for all the caring people who are sharing their experiences.

Thomas Brusstar  I was due for my shingles booster shot about a month after surgery. I saw my primary care doctor at about eight weeks, and he said I could get it anytime. It was just a matter of finding a place with any doses available . I found a dose, and had my shingles booster last week, at just over 10 weeks.
I had a short afib episode on day two, inpatient, and was on amiodarone for one moth post. Coumadin will stop at 3 month’s post, so in two weeks. I had a mitral repair.

LINDA ROBERTS  Thanks so much, Thomas. Hope I can go off amiodarone and coumadin in about 3 months. Glad to know you can get the shingles booster for that is what I need.

Thomas Brusstar  The shingles booster didn’t bleed or anything. But for me, that’s one vaccine that hurts! My arm at the puncture site hurt quite a lot for 2 days, and on the second day I had muscle aches and headache all over. It was the same for the first one and the booster for me. Hopefully you don’t have that problem. I know I sound whiny complaining about a vaccine puncture after having my chest sawed in half, but it is bad enough muscle pain that I actually took a Tylenol, which I rarely do for anything.

Catie B  Afib showed up for awhile, in my case. Off Amiodarone in 3 months, off the warfarin about 10 days later after wearing monitor at home to confirm sinus rhythm.

Ellen Leng  I failed Amio, was on Flecainide and metoprolol for about 3 months with thinners, then slowly tapered off with ZIO patch monitor check after that.

Susan Lynn  Your cardiologist will advise you, but i suspect with the appropriate antibiotic pre-medication you'll probably be fine to get the extraction. I would, however, see if you could wait on the crown. That preparation takes time and involves a fairly complex process . It also requires a subsequent appointment (usually) to cement the permanent crown. All of those steps may increase the likelihood of exposure to bacteria and viruses. See what your doc has to say. Good luck.

LINDA ROBERTS  Thanks, Susan. My cardiologist at the Cleveland Clinic has been amazing. However, who would guess a broken tooth
could create such havoc and no good solutions in my life.
My heart surgery went great.

Debbie Chatzky  Hi Linda. I will be having a root canal next week. I am 16 weeks out of surgery. My surgeon said 12 weeks and longer is preferred. If it has to happen then ample antibiotics prescribed by cardiologist is needed.

LINDA ROBERTS  Please keep us posted. That is my understanding 16 weeks for a root canal. My situation has been very frustrating for I thought I could get a root canal and crown and now the consensus is extraction for there is so little tooth left. Just praying for no abscess and I can make it to 4 months. Wishing you good luck and a successful procedure.

Thomas Brusstar  The printed discharge instructions after my surgery said no dental procedures for 12 weeks after surgery. As I understand it, even then a dentist will prescribe a prophylactic antibiotic to avoid infection of the heart (the way they used to do for even a non-symptomatic heart murmur). I know that isn't helpful, but between the blood thinners and infection risk, I'm sure that rule is meant to minimize risk. But it does not answer what you do when there's an emergency, which your might be. I would want to consult with the cardiologist. The dentist might not want to mess with it, either, frankly.

Louanna Miller  I agree with what Thomas wrote. I had the same surgeon as he at Northwestern Medicine and was instructed to get cleaning and any dental work done before surgery.

Be sure and consult with your cardiac surgeon before moving ahead. They may know of a dentist who is a medical doctor (mine is) that may be able to take extra precautions.

LINDA ROBERTS  Good idea. I did did get dental clearance before surgery. I was hoping there is a non invasive way to protect what is left of the tooth for a couple of months or more. This was a fluke accident.

Bill Gillam  I would postpone as long after surgery and then take antibiotics. Your dentist should prescribe. Nonetheless, consult with your cardiologist or surgeon.

Marie Myers  I was unlucky enough to need a root canal 6 months after my heart surgery. And it was the day before Hurricane Irma, too. I had the root canal done, and was on amoxicillin for 10 days after; all went well. Hope your situation goes as well!

LINDA ROBERTS  Thanks, Marie for sharing your root canal problem. Glad all went well. Waiting to hear from my cardiologist plus another opinion about tooth.

LINDA ROBERTS  The general consensus from the dentists is that I need a crown for most of the tooth is gone and the potential of an abscess which would cause even worse problems. See my cardiologist on Wednesday and will see what he says. Have to say so disappointed about this roadblock and so fearful of endocarditis even though I will take all the necessary precautions. Also, scared I will go into fib during the procedure. Just full of fear today. Feel kind of guilty complaining about a tooth when others have been through alot more.

Marie Myers  Don't feel guilty! You have been through a lot with your heart. And this is another hurdle. You will get through this-don't get discouraged.

LINDA ROBERTS  Now saying a root canal. See cardiologist on Wednesday. Not sure what will happen. When I got dental clearance, dentist never addressed what was apparently a cracked tooth. Marie, could I email you personally or call you later this week when I have more information about what the decision is about my tooth. Thank you.

Marie Myers  Sure. My email is shamrock96@msn.com. Home phone is 561-627-0734. Sorry you have to go through this! Everything will be okay...

LINDA ROBERTS  Thank you, Marie. Still gathering information so probably will not know anything until Friday. Thanks for sharing information.

Kirk Bepler  I was told at least 5 to 6 months before a cleaning after surgery, see what your cardiologist has to say.

John Lant  Sorry to hear about your broken tooth.. you may also need to be pre-medicated with an antibiotic before you have any dental work... make sure your dentist knows about your very recent heart surgery.

Marie Myers  I take 2 grams of amoxicillin an hour before dental work. if it is a more serious procedure or infection, they may keep you on a smaller dose for a week or so.

LINDA ROBERTS  Thank you. Will check with dentist and see what needs to be done. If I can wait, I will. Terrified of getting endocarditis after valve surgery.

Rita Savelis  Before any dental work you need to take an antibiotic about an hour before the visit. Your dentist should be aware of this and can give you the prescription. (Sorry about the tooth - you certainly didn't need another thing to take care of so soon!)

LINDA ROBERTS  I got dental clearance before the surgery and there were no problems but now my tooth has broken in half. Dentist is telling me I need a crown soon-in about 2 weeks. I am looking for a dentist in the Tampa, Fl. area that deals with cardiology patient. Does anyone have experience having to have dental work so soon after surgery?

Marie Myers  Yes, it can happen. Pulling those little metal wires out of an already irritated heart can cause arrythmyias. Ventricular tach is a very serious arrhythmia, hence the amioderone .Hope your heart stays calm!!

Wanda Mroz  I had pacing wires removed before I left the hospital, but I only had an 8 second run of afib which landed me on coumadin. After 3 months and 2 weeks of a heart monitor, I was taken off of coumadin because it is very common to have afib or flutter and irregular heartbeats after surgery. However almost a year after surgery, I went into aflutter. Since then I've had a cardioversion and ablation last year. I have also had a flutter again afterwards so at the moment I am still taking dofetilide which is a heart rate medication that isn't quite as dangerous as amiodarone. Some peoople stay on it for years. In any event, I never had a fib or flutter prior to surgery that I know of, but now I do. It is not an uncommon occurrence so do not think you are alone. I also had a maze procedure during surgery, but new scar tissue forms, and new circuits in your heart form sometimes. So far except for a slight hiccup in June of flutter, I've been doing good. Revisiting the electrophysiologist in December to see what the next plan is! Hang in there.. wishing you a calm heart and good healing.

Dan Vechiola  Awesome news Linda and a great job by you. That is great that you are in and out so quickly. Thanks for the info on the breathing tube. I am scheduled for September 6th and as you know a lot goes through your mind while waiting. Keep up the great work and take it one day at a time. Keep us posted on your recovery!

LINDA ROBERTS  Thank you, Dan. I got the Edwards Inspiris Resilia Valve. Think that is the Valve recommended for you as well. The waiting period for surgery is so hard, and I happy with my new valve.

John Lant  Get well soon Linda, and you received the latest version of replacement valve, I have the same as you.

Dan Vechiola  Great. Yes that is valve I am getting. So glad to hear you are happy. I know that it is still very soon after surgery but do you feel a difference with the new valve?

LINDA ROBERTS  Dan, I do for the stenosis and regurgitation were severe. However, it is only 5 days after surgery but can already feel a difference.

Bonnie Pearson  Congrats Linda! I had my Mitral valve replacement surgery at Cleveland Clinic on July 17th. Surgery went great but I ended up with a few complications afterwards - UTI from Foley Catheter and Following week developed full body rash from Advil. Go figure- Marc Gillinov’s team wonderful and so glad to have it done here. Intercontinental Suites a great place too for convalescing!!

Adam Pick  You go Linda! Fyi, I actually received an email from Dr. Svensson about you. He said you were a "delightful" person. ♥️

Dan Vechiola  So glad you can feel a difference. Keep at it one day at a time and keep us posted when you feel up to it on how you are doing it really helps.

Dan Vechiola  Great news Linda! The worst parts are now in your rear view mirror. Focus now on getting stronger each day forward. I appreciate the update. I will be having the same exact surgery in 2 1/2 weeks (September 6th) at Northwestern University.

Susan Lynn  Fantastic news!!! Your energy will increase slowly, but surely. Walk when you can, it will increase your endurance. Speedy recovery, Linda!

Judy S  So glad to hear Linda! The good news is time passes quickly at least it has for me now two weeks after surgery. I wish you the same!

Dan Vechiola  Glad to hear your tests went well. No turning back so focus on getting this all behind you and having a healthy heart. I am right with you and scheduled for surgery on September 6, 2018. Stay positive. Visualize the surgery going well. And take it one day at a time!

Nancy LeClair Gottlieb  That's awesome. Which Cleveland Clinic. I going to the one in Weston Florida next week. For my first appointment.

Judy S  You’re in good hands Linda! I found myself thinking I wouldn’t be able to sleep but when the time came I did! Give it a shot just in case so you’re as well rested as possible!

Louanna Miller  Great to hear your cath went well. My wrist was sore for 2 weeks but I have small wrists s d veins.

Stay positive. Will be praying for a successful surgery and recovery.

LINDA ROBERTS  Off to be at the Cleveland Clinic. Surgery sometime this morning. Will post when I can. Thanks so much to this great community.

Brett Butler  So Linda - I’m at the hospital- getting ready to go into surgery- best to you - we will both do well today 😷❤️

Dan Vechiola  Good luck Linda! Take it one day at a time and be proud that you are being courageous in your journey. You picked a great hospital and surgeon and now you can put your fate in their great hands and be at peace considering the circumstances.

Jeff V.  Linda - I had a great experience and result at the Clinic. Hopefully, you will feel more relaxed and confident (as I did), once you arrive in Cleveland and spend time with your team. They are awesome (understatement)...! Check out my journals if you want more details on my 2014 Clinic experience. Jeff

Diane Maher  A week tonight, Linda you will be on the recovery side. Sending many good wishes and positive
thoughts❤️

Anna Jones  1.How high risk is this surgery?
2. What are the specific risks?
3. How long should this valve replacement last (durability of repair) and why are you choosing this particular brand/type to use?
4. Will you be available for complications after the operation? For how many days? If you're not around, who is the backup?
5. How long does the surgery usually take?
6. How much will it hurt? How can you alleviate the pain? How long will I be on pain medication?
7. How long should it take until I feel normal and well?
8. How long will I be in the hospital if all goes well? How long in ICU?
9. What kind of follow-up is expected in the days/weeks after the procedure?
10. What type of long-term follow-up do I need in the years after surgery (i.e. Doctor visits, echos, EKGs, etc.)?
11. What are my options regarding blood (DDAVP and recombitant factor)? How is this being managed during the surgery? What precautions are being taken to ensure no risk of bleeding? Of blood clots forming?
12. How long will I be on the heart-lung machine?
13. Who is cutting and sewing, the surgeon or a less practiced intern or resident?
14. Who will work on the heart?! the surgeon only? or residents/PN while the surgeon is watching?!
*** 15.Will I need to change my medications prior to my surgery?

Note: Since the CC Clinic is very known and so is Dr. Svennson, you might not feel you need to ask the following questions. However, I have added them for other readers who might like a list of questions to supplement their own.

16. How many valve replacements have you done?
17. What has been your success rate? Your long-term success rates?
18. What is your mortality rate?


Sending prayers and best wishes.

Adam Pick  Linda, This is a GREAT question. That said, I thought you might like to see this video. Hope it helps! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4GgWADlsao

LINDA ROBERTS  Thanks, Adam for creating this website where people can share their stories and the vast amount of information in the learning center, heart hospitals, surgeon finder etc. I found your book a wonderful resource of knowledge.

LINDA ROBERTS  Thank, Anna. Great questions to ask and I will be adding them to my list.
It is going to be a whirlwind for I meet the surgeon the day before surgery but I do have alot of faith in Dr. Svensson and the Cleveland Clinic.

Rita Savelis  1. I started rehab 4 weeks after surgery. I was at an in-patient rehab. I did a stress test (on a treadmill with monitors on my heart) but no "nuclear" stress test. Never heard of that one?
2. I took antibiotics before teeth cleaning for a few years before OHS and now continue to do so 3 years after. Most doctors recommend it.
3. I ate raw fish and raw meat before, during and after OHS. Had sashimi yesterday....

Marie Myers  I started rehab at week 3 or 4. No stress test of any kind required. Yes, I take antibiotics prior to dental cleaning . On #3, I never heard of any such restrictions on sushi or other raw foods.

Dorothea Sautter  1. Depends on your recovery. I had a few complications after surgery, so I started cardio rehab at week 9.
2. I had a stress test before to decide which would be the ideal pulse rate during exercise.
3. I will have to take antibiotics before dental treatment.
4. Just had sushi yesterday!

Susan Lynn  1. You can start rehab as soon as your surgeon or cardiologist approves it. You need an order from a doctor to get into it. Some places also require an initial orientation meeting - I had to wait about 3 weeks to get that appointment. No stress test was required. You wear a heart monitor the entire time you're there and they start you off very slowly. They will also ask you to stop exercising and rest awhile if your heart rate or blood pressure goes too high. It's a very controlled environment.
2. I have taken antibiotics for decades before dental work as a precaution, but it is mandatory after OHS.
3. I don't know of any sushi restrictions or any other foods. I've had sushi since OHS. I know they prohibit pregnant women from eating it, however, so you've got to figure there is a health risk.

LINDA ROBERTS  Oh good, sushi is still on the menu. Did not ask about wine for already knew a glass or two of red is good for the heart. Looking for things to look forward to after surgery. Love to exercise so will be happy about cardiac rehab. Thanks for your replies.

Jennifer John  My MV repair and maze procedure via right thoracotomy was 5/31. I was approved to begin cardiac rehab by my surgeon at my post-op visit. They arranged it, and I start next Tuesday. Re: teeth cleaning, I was advised not to have any dental work until at least 6 months after my surgery date, and to always pre-med now to avoid possible heart infection. Re: no sushi, I can live with that!🙄💪🏼❤️

LINDA ROBERTS  Great that you can start cardiac rehab next week. Thanks for letting me know it is best to wait until 6 months after surgery for teeth cleanings, etc.

Willie Radl  I stated cardiac rehab 3 weeks post op, but was about week 6 before they let me jog on the treadmill. The only test I did prior to starting was walking around the track at a brisk pace to see what my HR was. You'll be hooked up to a medical heart monitor and someone is watching you the entire time. The whole process is some what of a controlled stress test....push til you are comfortable without sending your heart rate too high.

Kelly Stoll  Thanks for the post Linda. Yes to antibiotics for sure. It was common with birth defect bicuspids in the 80's and then they said not all pre-op need it, but post-op mechanical and I think perhaps tissue are a solid yes. If your dentist says you DON'T need it, ask the cardiology team why and the dentist too.

I have a dentist in the family... does it show? 😉

Susan Robichau  had it for 3 days starting about day 11 post op mitral valve repair. They increased my metaprolol, put me on warfarin for 3 months. never had the AFib again.

Rita Savelis  It is really common (65%?) to have short term Afib after OHS which can start soon or a few weeks later.
For a few patients Afib will stay, but most will get over it with a few meds and possibly a cardioversion, or just with time as the heart adjusts.

Most patients, Afib or not, will take a betablocker (like metrapolol) for a few weeks/months after OHS to slow their heart beat so that the heart gets a rest after the trauma of OHS which can cause it to beat faster. OHS is hard on your heart, not just on you!

For Afib you may need other meds and perhaps a short term anticoagulant to prevent stroke.

I feel like I had every other side effect of OHS, but I did not have Afib. However, it is talked about a lot, as it is so common, so one ends up learning....

LINDA ROBERTS  Thank you, Susan and Rita. Glad atrial fib was short lived for you , Susan and Rita you were spared that one side effect of atrial fib for you had enough of your own.
This site is so informative to learn what to expect. For some reason, Rita, you really brought him home when you said open heart is not just hard on you but it really takes a toll on the heart and that is why people take metrapolol.

Marie Myers  Hey Susan- if you scroll down to Susan Lynn's journal, there are some comments you might like to read about metoprolol.

Jim Harvey   Hi Linda, I had A-fib prior to surgery (was on metoprolol and Eliquis which kept it well controlled) then with both Rx again after surgery + amiodarone. Have had more episodes post-surgery (mostly in 2-4 week post) but none since. Somewhere on this site I saw reference to an A-fib question which was answered by a doctor that 95% of a-fib post-valve surgery is temporary.

Marianne Charters  I had a couple of bouts of fib just before surgery(mitral valve repair),until surgery I took Eliquis and they doubled my atenolol.
When they restarted my heart in surgery I had fib again so they started an amiodarone drip and I went home on amiodarone for 6 weeks and back to my small dose of atenolol. No afib and Im at 7 weeks. I would also like to mention how wonderful my surgeon was. She also did a left atrial appendage ligation which is kind of anew thing, but for irregular heart rhythms blood can pool in this one little area and form clots. It's a useless flap but has been shown to be the cause of countless strokes etc.

John Lant  I am over 3 weeks post opt now (Aortic Valve Replaced, Mytral Valve Repaired & Double Bypass) and my heart is still beating just fine. No A-fib at all but I am on metoprolol twice a day.

Penelope Bodek  I'm going to follow this discussion. My surgery is in 2 weeks and I'm so stressed. I worry that I will replace this stress with stressing about the new valve! I stress a lot. :-(

Noreen Kitchen  I had my aortic valve replaced with a mechanical valve in March of 2017. The waiting for surgery is truly the hardest part of the journey. Once you have made it to the recovery side there will be a huge sense of relief. I think we all worry about what could happen but as you heal you will find that it diminishes at least it has for me. You will be surprised at how your imagination of what’s to come is far worse than it will actually be. You are going to do great and soon will be on the recovery side!

Rita Savelis  Pre-op stress is finite . Post-op stress can last. One doesn't always feel finished with it all after OHS because one remains a heart patient. But you can't overthink it. And after awhile you move on to other things and your valve situation is not a central worry anymore. I had 2 valves replaced and a 3rd repaired in 2015. I no longer stress about it, but I do feel different. Take care.

Anna Jones  Hi Linda, my disclaimer is that everyone has a different experience, and resilience, so everyone's thoughts and feelings are going to be their own. Having said that, I agree with Rita. I didn't find that after surgery I felt much emotional relief. I was relieved that my worst fears didn't happen, but that is it.

My surgeon said that about 95% of repairs last 10 years and a similar amount last about 20 years. So that leaves me wondering what will happen in the future. It keeps me aware that I might need surgery again. I will always be aware that I am a cardiac patient and that things can go wrong with my heart.

On the other hand, I am aware that a million things can go wrong every day of my life and I don't think about any of them... unless I am about to do something dangerous and stupid :-)

I guess the best thing to do is just take it one day at a time.

Sending prayers and best wishes.

Kelly Stoll  There was a lot of stress when I first came home, post-op. But it was different than pre-op. Before the surgery, you worry about alm the concerns involving the surgery. After, the life adjustments and medical appointments were overwhelming. Slowly it is getting better and in some ways, feeling physically better helps. There is also the post-surgery depression which can flare or other problems... again more stressors of a different sort. Overall though I would say I feel less stress about being done with the surgery. The long-run looks bright too.

Marianne Charters  I just met with my surgeon yesterday 6 weeks post mitral valve repair) and it eased my worries a ton. She was very warm and answered all my weird questions. For some reason I got very weepy and she said that was normal. The reality of your mortality is a huge stress. Probably why some people get depressed But today I feel like it’s going to be ok!!!!!

timothy morris  The period leading up to the surgery was way more stressful for me. Since the surgery I take everyday as getting closer to being back to normal and getting back to the activities I really enjoy. I know I have an artificial valve but look on the bright side without it the future was very dim. So much less stress for me than before.

Rose Madura  I tend to not worry about things I can't control. I feel blessed that I'm able to do it. I believe that God is in control of every situation and simply pray for His will in my life.

LINDA ROBERTS  Thanks for sharing your feelings and experiences. Each one's journey will be different, and none of us know until we go down that road.

Debbie Chatzky  I agree the pre-op stress is finite. I am 6 weeks out and I feel that I was so focused on the surgery, being prepared, being psyched up, getting through the hospital stays and bumps in the road. Now I feel that I am still stuck there emotionally. I am starting rehab and still taking amiodarone, etc making progress but I feel like something still has to happen and rewinding the days and weeks after surgery.Hard to explaine.

Bonnie Stone-Hope  Hello Linda,
My comments are similar to Rose, in that if I cannot control the situation, I do not worry about it. Consider it a waste of energy.
Was not worried about the surgery as my Mother had the same surgery 20 years earlier and did just fine.
My post surgery experience is the same, not worried, but cannot really "forget" about the experience since have to wear a medic alert bracelet, so always aware.

Rita Savelis  I hear you Debbie. There is a lot of intensity as you prepare for surgery, and then it's over and you have to deal with the after. There is an emotional recovery that can take time as there is a lot to process that you didn't have time for before. And you can find yourself reliving it. I think this natural process is important to recognise and to talk out. But many may wonder why they don't feel great and normal and thankful and wonderful right away. I really needed to talk about (with a therapist) and write out everything that happened and that I felt, in order to acknowledge and process it.

Ralph Thompson  I know how you feel -- I am getting tests on a friday then weekend in the hotel more tests and consultations on monday and tuesday along with Meeting Dr. Gillinov for the first time - then saw me open on wednesday --- Am excited and apprehensive at the same time --- Just think of how much better you will feel after the recovery period is over. I can't wait to get back exercising and being more active without being tired. Just think of the positive things ---- Will go faster than you think. Happy Surgery !!!!

Kelly Stoll  I think even if you go the more local route, tests are still needed the week before surgery. In my case at least. Not sure if this will help or not, but thinking of you either way. Best wishes.

Catie B  Ordinarily, things go fine and as expected. I imagine you already know what type of valve you want, etc. The surgeon's nurse practitioner facilitates a lot of communication and can get urgent questions answered in advance. There's no place like that campus -- it's an amazing place.

I might do things a little differently if I ever return for surgery to CC again. I had a surprise sprung on me the night I met my surgeon. The appointment was very hurried because his complex surgery the day I met him had run hours longer than expected. He told me he was going to take care of my aortic aneurysm via a procedure I'd never heard of--aortoplasty. I nearly lost my mind with anxiety overnight, since he said with that approach sometimes the aneurysms return. When I went to surgery the next morning, I requested to confer with the nurse who worked with him. I explained that I HAD to meet with my surgeon prior to the surgery. She balked, but I was unmovable and she made it happen. He popped in while I was laying there prepped. I told him I was unwilling to go the route he'd had me sign off on, but wanted my aneurysm repaired in the normal fashion with a dacron graft. He immediately reassured me that's exactly what he'd do. Had I met with him earlier, we could have hashed this out without an insane amount of stress at a time that was already beyond stressful.

LINDA ROBERTS  Thanks for sharing that information. Good for you to have done your homework and knowing the route you wanted to go for your aneurysm.
I have been communicating with Dr. Svensson's nurse and she has been very helpful. My cardiologist is at the Cleveland Clinic as well and I agree they are pretty amazing.

Shannon Gray  I had my surgery at CC, with Dr.Svennson, too. I had to travel, but because I have 2 children, we met for a consult, flew home, then returned 2 weeks later so I could get everything in line at home. I did my preop testing and meeting a few days leading to surgery. You are in excellent hands, but you still have to be able to thinknthings through, ask questions, and be heard. Prayers that this will be an easeful process. Thinking of you.

Willie Radl  I'd be a little concerned about meeting the surgeon for the first time the day before surgery, but with Dr. Svennson you kind of know you are in good hands...not a lot to worry about. The biggest question will probably be what you want it replaced with.

I had my valve replaced at Mayo Clinic Minnesota and had all pre-op tests the day before, no big deal. Pre-op testing is just to identify any major issues before surgery, once you get into surgery they will get a good look at your heart and make sure any issues are corrected.

LINDA ROBERTS  I know I want a biological valve but am not sure which one. From what I read it is based on the size of annulus and input from the surgeon on which one he feels is best based on your tests. I have noticed alot of people have been happy with the Carpentier-Edwards Perimount aortic valve but there seems to be many good ones out there. How to choose?

Anna Jones  Linda, you will not be asked to choose brand. The surgeon will want to know whether you want mechanical or tissue. He will probably discuss his preference in type but will bow to your decision. After that he chooses which manufacturer and which brand he will use, and this is based on his experience and the valve he is working with. Sending prayers and best wishes for an easy surgery, gentle recovery, and feelings of trust for the journey ahead.

Rex Anderson  I had the same situation here at Cleveland Clinic. Came up last week and met surgeon the day before. All went well and we even had a fun dinner cruise the night before the surgery.

John Lant  Linda, a lot of those factors depend on your age and activity. From what I have read the older you are the longer your tissue valve will last. If you are a young person who is highly active a mechanical valve will most likly a better choice for you. But if you are close to 70 years of age and do normal activities for a person in that age group you should see at least 12 years or more before that valve will need to be replaced. Arnold Schwarzenegger got 20 years from his original replacement tissue valve before he just recently had surgery to replace it with another tissue valve. The type of valve replacement is something that you really do need to talk about with your surgeon, so you fully understand the benefits of which is best for you.

Rose Madura  I chose a tissue valve and was told that it should last 20 years and then it may start going bad. I was 59 when I had surgery. Hoping the "going bad" will mean just that and it will gradually go bad. I may never need to replace it or at age 79 or 80, if I do, I would think I'd qualify for the TAVR which may be the new normal in the next few years anyway.

Steven Methot  I am a fairly active (nearly) 60 year old, hiking, cross-country skiing, running. I am also a klutz. The thought of blood thinners for the rest of my life and the likelihood of a klutzish fall in the back woods with bleeding and such just doesn't appeal to me. I am hoping that a tissue valve or repair can be done. Thanks for asking the question Linda!

Marjorie Murphy  I will have my mitral valve and aortic valve replaced in September. Right now I am thinking a tissue valve is the way to go. I am 76 but actually health wise a very active 65 year old.
Would hate to have another OHS Hope this lasts for 20 years

Paul Kurf  I, too, wanted to avoid being on blood thinners my whole life due to a mechanical valve. Like Steve Methot, I'm a X-skiier, hiker, etc. but also kind of a klutz and have had a tendency to being a bleeder my whole life with a typically lower platelet count. Plus, I *love* green leafy veggies and didn't want to spend the rest of my life monitoring my blood so closely. So, my bioprosthesis will be bovine (also on strong recommendation of my surgeon and cardiologist). I'm 60 and also am sure that should I require a second valve replacement, that TAVR may be so commonplace by then. Or maybe by the 2030s or 2040s, something even quicker/safer/better.

timothy morris  I am in my late 50's and went with a Bovine valve. I am very active outdoors and like others have mentioned could not imagine being on blood thinners for the rest of my life. The valve I got says it can last up to 25 years, I am hoping for 20 then I would for sure be a TAVR candidate. Plus the mechanical valve supposedly makes a lot of noise, the tissue valve i had put in 6 days ago is very quiet.

Civita Fahey  I think we are all ( who chose a tissue valve) hoping for at least 15-20 years.. and thats a long time in medical advancement.

Michael Cline  Many of the bio valve manufacturers are designing their valves to accept "valve in valve" procedures should their valve wear out.

Debbie Chatzky  I had mitral valve replacement with bovine May 31st. My surgeon told me that very soon TAVR will be the norm.

Steven Methot  My physical therapist has a mechanical mitral valve (his second replacement as his first was tissue). It... ticks. I suppose that one can get used to it, but I kept thinking of the crocodile in Peter Pan.

Rita Savelis  I think that if doctors could answer this question they'd be very happy.
At this point, we know that tissue valves last longer in older patients (over 65) and shorter in younger patients. But any individual valve of any make can last a short or a long time. Alas, anything can happen. It won't be because of anything specific you do.
Each manufacturer of valves is marketing their valves and there is a lot of medical marketing out there.
There are also statistics and averages...

There is no real best choice but each patient will have personal reasons for choosing the valve she chooses and so it will be the right choice for you at the time.
Take care.

Willie Radl  I think the best tissue valve for durability is the Edwards Inspiris valve, its new and I'm not sure if all hospitals have it yet but I think CC and others have been using it. Its also designed to expand when TAVR replacement is needed, the older valves require downsizing TAVR valves which will reduce flow.
https://www.edwards.com/eu/_layouts/Edwards.moss.web.webapp/resilia-eu/?WT.ac=INSPIRISRESILIAAorticValve