Luis's Journal

Richard Munson  Lots of folks here who have undergone both. Repair of course is preferred but not always possible. I was repaired by a surgeon who does both but always looks at repair as his first option. Sometimes they opt to repair but once inside may decide otherwise. In my case he utilized the existing valve but had to repair a couple of leaflets using goretex and added an annular ring and performed the maze procedure while there. The most common advice you will receive here is get more than one opinion and stick with a hospital and surgeon that has a proven track record. Numbers count. 

Suzette Schear  Hi Luis welcome to the website.  My surgeon wasn’t sure if we was going to a fix or repair  and decided during surgery.  I ended up having a repair this Feb.  confirming what Richard said this website and people on it have been extremely helpful. Was there something specific you wanted to know? The basics write down all questions. If you have any doubts about anything get a second opinion.  Each journey is different. For me was in hospital 6 days. When you come home you have to sleep on your back.  If you have access to recliner it will be helpful.  

Susan Lynn  Luis - You'll want to find a high volume, experienced mitral valve surgeon. More than 90% of mitral valves can be repaired with the right expertise. Replacements usually involve life-long medication and dietary consistency to prevent unwanted clotting. If you have any other questions, please ask. Lots of mitral valve heart warriors are on this site.

Robert Miller  Also check out the learning page on this site. Go to this link, scroll down and look under Treatment Options.
https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/learning-center.php