Lynn's Journal

Laura Julius  Bringing a tablet or phone may help; certainly, I haven't been down this path yet myself. I'm scheduled for OHS next Friday. In my case, I will be allowed one ... Read more

Laura Julius  Bringing a tablet or phone may help; certainly, I haven't been down this path yet myself. I'm scheduled for OHS next Friday. In my case, I will be allowed one visitor each day so I haven't brainstormed too much around it. Thoughts that come immediately is to see if friends and family are open to writing you and sending you cards now so that you can open a few each day you are recovering. I read somewhere about a family who wrote a letter for their loved one to read each day. I'm not sure if you can bring a photo or two of your family, that might be comforting too. Hopefully others who have coped with this will also provide you with some ideas. I'll be thinking of you!

Susan Lynn  Lynn - I also wanted to know every step of the process in advance of my surgery, too. The timing varies but, for me, catheter and IVs were out on the day ... Read more

Susan Lynn  Lynn - I also wanted to know every step of the process in advance of my surgery, too. The timing varies but, for me, catheter and IVs were out on the day after surgery, drains were out on the second. I didn't have any pacing wires, so I can't help with that question. I was released to go home on the third day. Best of luck to you! ❤

Bonnie Vilchez  Catheter & one chest tube out within 24 hours. Two other chest tubes out by third day. IV stayed until fourth day, but you will want it for pain meds. I didn’t ... Read more

Bonnie Vilchez  Catheter & one chest tube out within 24 hours. Two other chest tubes out by third day. IV stayed until fourth day, but you will want it for pain meds. I didn’t have pacing wires either. First few days post op fly by. Hardest part was waking for first time post-op in ICU, lots of pain. After that I was alert enough to push the button for pain meds. Up & down to restroom will likely be your first workout & you will be motivated! Lol. Ask for help. Good luck to you.

Dawn VanDenBosch  My SAVR was done March 1, 2016. I am a little vague as to the timeline, but total time in the hospital was 5-6 days.
When I woke up from surgery, I had no ... Read more

Dawn VanDenBosch  My SAVR was done March 1, 2016. I am a little vague as to the timeline, but total time in the hospital was 5-6 days.
When I woke up from surgery, I had no pain. I couldn't move but was aware of where I was and what had happened. I had no pain, but was annoyed with the tube in my throat. It took a while before I could move my arms or legs, or talk. I started pushing spit out of my mouth to let them know I wanted that tube out cuz it seemed my tongue was the only thing that I could move! haha! Catheter was 2 days, Wires were out on third day. Chest tubes were pulled on the 3rd or 4th day and that was brief but surprisingly a bit painful. I was walking within a day or two and did quite well all in all.

Rose Madura  Hi Lynn. Good questions. I'm not sure if everyone gets pacemaker wires, but I did. It's not too bad in the scheme of things. It's it hard to recover? ... Read more

Rose Madura  Hi Lynn. Good questions. I'm not sure if everyone gets pacemaker wires, but I did. It's not too bad in the scheme of things. It's it hard to recover? Well, it's no picnic in the park but you can do it. For me, I had a slew of complications. But that doesn't mean you will. Most people recover uneventfully. But it takes time and work. Be prepared to walk. It's the best thing for you. You will probably want to continue with your wedge. I bought ine but I didn't find it comfortable. I liked using a travel pillow when resting in the chair. Take one to the hospital. No idea on gaming or leggings.... hope this helps.

Marie Myers  Yes, I think everyone gets pacer wires, since the possibility of arrhythmias always exist during and after open heart surgery. Mine got pulled out about mid ... Read more

Marie Myers  Yes, I think everyone gets pacer wires, since the possibility of arrhythmias always exist during and after open heart surgery. Mine got pulled out about mid week, I think, and it was not painful. I understand sometimes the wires are clipped at the skin level. Don’t know how this is decided, unless it is doctors’ choice.
Recovery is different for everyone. For me it was a slow process, but I noticed a little progress everyday. One big thing you need is patience. It can get frustrating when you feel like you are not yet back to “normal” I felt well enough to go back to work 2 days a week at 8 weeks. Luckily, I had an uneventful post op course, without complications. Starting cardiac rehab at 3 weeks help build my stamina and confidence. I wore easy fitting shorts at home for a couple week, and after that started wearing my yoga leggings. Tight clothes are harder to deal with, cuz you are not supposed to use the strength of your arms too much, too early. Got to let that sternum heal solidly. I had a wedge, but found it did not suit me at all. I loved my electric recliner for a month, though. Like Rose, I have no idea on gaming. But I do think anything that mentally propels you towards recovery is a good driving force in recovery. Hope that helps.

Thomas Brusstar  I had 2 pacing wires. I think they are standard practice, just because doing all that slicing in the heart tissue may lead to serious rhythm issues, so while ... Read more

Thomas Brusstar  I had 2 pacing wires. I think they are standard practice, just because doing all that slicing in the heart tissue may lead to serious rhythm issues, so while they are inside they attach the wires. I never needed them, lucking. On like day 2 they try to pull them out manually, BUT if they don't come out with a firm pull, they give up and leave them in situ, just clipping them off at the skin as Marie says. Basically the other end is embedded in heart tissue, and they don't want to tear anything. So, one of mine came out easily, the other didn't. So one is still in there. I'm not super happy about that, because it's one more thing left inside me (along with the metal ring inside the heart); but apparently it doesn't do any harm in there.
I think gaming will come back fast! Like the day you get home. I would just say you'll want to get up and stretch and walk a lot. I know I get absorbed and don't move for an hour or more, and when recovering you'll want to keep moving. But gaming will help with the mood!

Diane T  Others have already given good advice on the pacing wires. Recovery is different for everyone, of course. That said, I was healthy and active before surgery, ... Read more

Diane T  Others have already given good advice on the pacing wires. Recovery is different for everyone, of course. That said, I was healthy and active before surgery, yet I was surprised that it really did take about a year before feeling totally "normal" again, which is what I'd heard/read on this website. The walking advice is right on the money. Also, it was a hard lesson, but I had to learn to be patient and not overdo things. Figuring out where the "overdo" line is can be challenging. That said, it all came down to listening to my body. Cardiac rehab at 3 months is when the big leaps forward began.

I agree that gaming is something you'll be able to do as soon as you get home, based on your stamina. I agree with Marie's comment on electric recliner. I rented one for about 6 weeks (from Relax the Back, if there's one in your area) and it was a godsend. Good luck!

Rose Madura  The perfect choice is YOUR choice. Do you diligence and then make the choice tou feel is best for you. Don't be afraid to get opinions from cardiologist and ... Read more

Rose Madura  The perfect choice is YOUR choice. Do you diligence and then make the choice tou feel is best for you. Don't be afraid to get opinions from cardiologist and surgeon. Threw will know pros snd cons. It's a tough decision but is very personal. Best wishes.

Paige Aguilar  At 16 I had to make this choice. My reasoning for tissue was due too having a very long life ahead and wanting children. It gave me the best opportunity at ... Read more

Paige Aguilar  At 16 I had to make this choice. My reasoning for tissue was due too having a very long life ahead and wanting children. It gave me the best opportunity at a normal life. It also has given me almost 14 years at, "normal life". If I had to do it over, I would choose tissue. I would make your decision based on your life. What each has to offer and what gives you the most "normalcy". You will be the one with it so choose what will best suit you!

Rose Madura  The hospital gave me a surgical bra that I used until I could tolerate my usual ones. I did use a shower chair for a little while. Dry shampoo probably a ... Read more

Rose Madura  The hospital gave me a surgical bra that I used until I could tolerate my usual ones. I did use a shower chair for a little while. Dry shampoo probably a good idea. I know I sound like a broken record on this site but a travel pillow saved the day for napping in the chair. They didn't call me the pillow lady for nothing

Marie Myers  I went bra free for my recovery. Like Rose, I used a shower chair for about a week or so. I think I wore 2 hospital gowns, one front-way and 1 back way for ... Read more

Marie Myers  I went bra free for my recovery. Like Rose, I used a shower chair for about a week or so. I think I wore 2 hospital gowns, one front-way and 1 back way for no butt displays. I really was a minimalist in what I brought to the hospital. For home recovery, I rented an electric recliner for a month, and really loved it.

Barbara Wood  Bra- didn't wear one for at least a month ( too uncomfortable!) I wore tank tops with a bra shelf built in & if I was feeling modest I'd wear a cardigan over ... Read more

Barbara Wood  Bra- didn't wear one for at least a month ( too uncomfortable!) I wore tank tops with a bra shelf built in & if I was feeling modest I'd wear a cardigan over it. My hospital room- mate was supplied with a surgical bra, but they didn't think that was necessary for me - 32d - not small, but not huge either. Shower seat - didn't have one but would get one if doing it again ( :(!), showers are exhausting! I wore pj bottoms under my gown. Didn't use dry shampoo, but not a bad idea. very best wishes Lynn, sending good vibes :)

Susan Lynn  Dental care is extremely important for everyone, but especially critical for heart patients. The germs in your mouth can travel through your bloodstream ... Read more

Susan Lynn  Dental care is extremely important for everyone, but especially critical for heart patients. The germs in your mouth can travel through your bloodstream and cause infection in your heart. The American Heart Association has provided varying information on premedication for dental work over the years so be sure that your dentist is aware of your heart condition. My dentist is a firm believer and I premedicate with antibiotics for all of my dental cleanings and procedures. ❤

Lisa Coombe  I went about 7 years before I went to the dentist, only went because my cardiologist needed a dental report done, thankfully I only needed 3 fillings done and ... Read more

Lisa Coombe  I went about 7 years before I went to the dentist, only went because my cardiologist needed a dental report done, thankfully I only needed 3 fillings done and a clean, going back in March for a check up and clean before possible surgery in April

Phyllis Petersen  It's one of the most difficult decisions and one that only you can really make. Even though I had repair, I still had to make the decision just in case. I chose ... Read more

Phyllis Petersen  It's one of the most difficult decisions and one that only you can really make. Even though I had repair, I still had to make the decision just in case. I chose a pig valve, because I'm careless and didn't want to deal with blood thinners. I didn't need replacement, but wound up on Eliquis anyway for a leg clot a few years later. All the best with the decision, testing and surgery.

Debbie Swartz  Welcome! I am on the other side. Had valve replacement Oct 27 and doing great! Waiting was unnerving but was quite calm when time came. My surgeon said I would ... Read more

Debbie Swartz  Welcome! I am on the other side. Had valve replacement Oct 27 and doing great! Waiting was unnerving but was quite calm when time came. My surgeon said I would get the INSPIRIS RESILIA VALVE. Supposed to last 10-15 years. And this valve is good for the TAVR when I need a new one. I am 69.

Steven Methot  When they say it's your choice... it's your choice. You will get people who will swear up and down on their particular valve, but in the end after gathering ... Read more

Steven Methot  When they say it's your choice... it's your choice. You will get people who will swear up and down on their particular valve, but in the end after gathering the information and seeking the advice of professionals... it is up to you. My choice will likely be bio, but it doesn't mean that it's better or worse than mechanical, just what I am comfortable with.
All the best!

Rose Madura  One of the most difficult choices to make. I recommend talking pros and cons with your cardiologist and surgeon. But at the end of the day, you must decide. ... Read more

Rose Madura  One of the most difficult choices to make. I recommend talking pros and cons with your cardiologist and surgeon. But at the end of the day, you must decide. But no matter what choice you make, it will be the right choice. Hope this helps.

Craig Cole  Hi Lynn! Probably the hardest, most deeply personal decision you will make, and certainly an area I have spent the most time researching. In the end - no ... Read more

Craig Cole  Hi Lynn! Probably the hardest, most deeply personal decision you will make, and certainly an area I have spent the most time researching. In the end - no right or wrong decision, just what you feel most comfortable with. For me, either way, its better than what I have now! The good news, in addition to all the great information that is available, is that they continue to make advancements: mechanical valves (ie the On-x) are being tested with lower levels of anticoagulants; tissue valves, like the Edwards Inspiris Resilia valve are showing longer levels of durability, and designed to better facilitate TAVR down the road. Do all the research you can, discuss options/ask questions with your doctor, and be confident that the final decision you make is the right one for you. Best wishes!

Susan Lynn  Lynn - As I read your post, I can almost recall that feeling I had before interviewing my prospective cardiac surgeons. I had an exhaustive list of questions ... Read more

Susan Lynn  Lynn - As I read your post, I can almost recall that feeling I had before interviewing my prospective cardiac surgeons. I had an exhaustive list of questions and was determined to get every single one answered! Be prepared for your appointment and don't feel obligated to choose your mother's surgeon even if you feel like you have an established relationship. One of the biggest questions you need to get answered is the volume of your specific procedure that your surgeon performs successfully every month - experience is a must for heart surgery. Once you find one who meets your criteria, you'll be ready to put this procedure behind you - confidence in your surgeon, medical team, and facility make all the difference on game day! Make the choice that's right for you!

Susan Lynn  Lynn - You always have a choice. There are many options in valves, surgeons, entries, and procedures. In addition to the wonderful community of heart warriors ... Read more

Susan Lynn  Lynn - You always have a choice. There are many options in valves, surgeons, entries, and procedures. In addition to the wonderful community of heart warriors on this site to support folks like you (whom we affectionately refer to as those in the "waiting room"), it provides a wealth of information (see the links at the top of the page) to conduct the research you need to make a number of informed decisions. Don't worry about offending your cardiologist or surgeon - they expect you to do your homework. Best of luck to you!

Thomas Brusstar  I agree with the other commenters: for something this big, you have a choice. People travel all the time to other cities to use a surgeon who does this all ... Read more

Thomas Brusstar  I agree with the other commenters: for something this big, you have a choice. People travel all the time to other cities to use a surgeon who does this all the time. Managing this inventive and specific procedure is an art, and you should be confident saying “you know what, I know this is part art and part science, so I want to think about it and check what others would advise.”