Mark's Heart Valve Journal

Wojtek Blasiak  Mark, not sure what you had done but I felt the same way and 45-50 min lite workouts were just simply not enough for me. I have asked cardiologist to increase ... Read more

Wojtek Blasiak  Mark, not sure what you had done but I felt the same way and 45-50 min lite workouts were just simply not enough for me. I have asked cardiologist to increase my workouts or release me to join back my gym. My cardiologist denied my request and I'm continue to workout at the cardio rehab. I was told that slow progress in controlled environment is way to go. I had main aorta replaced (aorta aneurysm) and valve repaired.
I think, you should ask your lead nurse for more individual rehab process and release date. I did and have my goals and dates set to start my workouts at the gym. Good luck to you with your rehab and welcome to the club.

Kim Boardman  I stopped cardiac rehab (phase 2) after 4 weeks because it started the new year, and I started a new deductible. Where I go has a phase 3 rehab where it’s ... Read more

Kim Boardman  I stopped cardiac rehab (phase 2) after 4 weeks because it started the new year, and I started a new deductible. Where I go has a phase 3 rehab where it’s pretty much the same thing as stage 2 except you are not wired up. They still work with you and take blood pressures and take a quick ekg. The difference is phase 2 at $2,000/month, and phase 3 at $50/month! Maybe your place has something like this.

Judy S  It's such a major operation Mark that I think people are surprised that we don't look like patients. I had a friend who couldn't understand how I was going ... Read more

Judy S  It's such a major operation Mark that I think people are surprised that we don't look like patients. I had a friend who couldn't understand how I was going out and not lying on a couch with an IV drip!

Judy S  I have a desk job as well Mark but it's high stress. I really enjoyed taking more time so I could do cardiac rehab and also to get my brain fully in gear. So ... Read more

Judy S  I have a desk job as well Mark but it's high stress. I really enjoyed taking more time so I could do cardiac rehab and also to get my brain fully in gear. So I went back after 3 months but it was fabulous to have the time to really recover! (And I am working from home right now about 3 days a week.) It has given me time to eat well and not go back to old bad habits!

Thomas Brusstar  You might just find yourself tired, just in general or because of medication. So I was fine after a month, but I do admit I got tired in the afternoon and ... Read more

Thomas Brusstar  You might just find yourself tired, just in general or because of medication. So I was fine after a month, but I do admit I got tired in the afternoon and left early sometimes. I would say just be alert and don't try to "tough it out" if you're feeling too tired. Just go home and come back better the next day.

Barbara Wood  I went back 1/2 days at 6-7 weeks & I came home & napped every afternoon. My job was fairly physical, not deskwork. Mentally, it was a little challenging for ... Read more

Barbara Wood  I went back 1/2 days at 6-7 weeks & I came home & napped every afternoon. My job was fairly physical, not deskwork. Mentally, it was a little challenging for the first few months too, I forgetful & kind of had to reach for my words sometimes - just wasn't really sharp! Good luck to you, let us know how it goes!

Jill McDonald   Hi Mark, I am just a week behind you. I am 5 weeks today. I originally thought I would go back at 6 weeks part-time. I have since changed my mind. I have ... Read more

Jill McDonald   Hi Mark, I am just a week behind you. I am 5 weeks today. I originally thought I would go back at 6 weeks part-time. I have since changed my mind. I have started cardiac rehab yesterday and would like to get some weeks under my belt before I tackle work. My dr. gave me two most of s/t disability. I have since decided to use the entire time or at least go back part time the last week. Let us know what you decide. I still need to the car yet. I need to start that tomorrow. Good luck on your decision. Work will always be there! Take the time you need!

Susan Robichau  I went back at 10 weeks. I needed all of those weeks to get my strength and stamina back. I was napping daily for almost 2 months. I went back full time and ... Read more

Susan Robichau  I went back at 10 weeks. I needed all of those weeks to get my strength and stamina back. I was napping daily for almost 2 months. I went back full time and did not have an issue. Is better to wait if you can afford it.

Mark Jaycox  Dan, I wanted the Bears to win so bad and as soon as the kicker made the first field goal when the Eagles called time out I knew he was going to miss the next ... Read more

Mark Jaycox  Dan, I wanted the Bears to win so bad and as soon as the kicker made the first field goal when the Eagles called time out I knew he was going to miss the next one. That was even more of a heartbreak than the Seahawks loss. Both teams will be back stronger next year.

Willie Radl  Mark, I hope your recovery has been going well so far! I have United Health Care and even though it was post op (out of pocket met) I think I still paid $25/per ... Read more

Willie Radl  Mark, I hope your recovery has been going well so far! I have United Health Care and even though it was post op (out of pocket met) I think I still paid $25/per session because it wasn't a necessary procedure. It is kind of expensive for an hour on a treadmill, but to me the value comes in regaining your self confidence to push your self and your heart. You will regain the confidence to exercise and know that you will be okay when you do physical activity. I only did 2 sessions a week and ended up stopping the class after 5 weeks, at that point I felt comfortable exercising on my own. I think its different for each individual and ultimately comes down to how much value are you still getting out of the class as the weeks go by. A lot of people go the full 12 weeks and some in the sessions were way beyond that and just continued working out at the hospital.

Valerie Herndon-Vitarella  After my first surgery, I was going to have to pay $190.00 per visit until I met my $2,000 deductible because I wasn't cleared for rehab until the new year. ... Read more

Valerie Herndon-Vitarella  After my first surgery, I was going to have to pay $190.00 per visit until I met my $2,000 deductible because I wasn't cleared for rehab until the new year. I didn't do rehab for that surgery because I had just paid $6,000 out of pocket for the surgery at the end of the previous year. For my second surgery, once I met my max out of pocket on the surgery, rehab was 100% covered,

Louanna Miller  I just received a bill for 10 sessions of cardiac rehab. The total billed was $2800 ($280 per session). My insurance paid $800, leaving a $2000 balance for ... Read more

Louanna Miller  I just received a bill for 10 sessions of cardiac rehab. The total billed was $2800 ($280 per session). My insurance paid $800, leaving a $2000 balance for me to pay for the first month. I’ve just completed a second month.

Judy S  I’m in San Francisco so the cost may be higher. The gross cost was $378 per session while you are on the heart monitor (12 sessions). Then it reduced down ... Read more

Judy S  I’m in San Francisco so the cost may be higher. The gross cost was $378 per session while you are on the heart monitor (12 sessions). Then it reduced down to $309. Then you have to factor in the allowable rate your insurance has negotiated with the hospital that knocks the price down. I would guess that you will meet your deductible with follow up costs for this year. I struggled with whether or not it was worth it for me to finish out my six remaining sessions this year, but in the end, I felt it would be totally worth it. Rehab makes a huge difference.

Mark Jaycox  WOW, I can't believe how much it costs! I'm still waiting for rehab center to get back to me but if this is any indication i don't think I'll be going for the ... Read more

Mark Jaycox  WOW, I can't believe how much it costs! I'm still waiting for rehab center to get back to me but if this is any indication i don't think I'll be going for the entire 12 weeks. I have pretty good insurance with a $600 deductible so i guess I'll have to just wait and see.

Mark Jaycox  I just heard back and each session is around $300. After I hit my deductible that will drop to $60. That's still over $2000 for the 12 weeks. I don't think ... Read more

Mark Jaycox  I just heard back and each session is around $300. After I hit my deductible that will drop to $60. That's still over $2000 for the 12 weeks. I don't think I'll attend all 12 weeks but we'll see. Thank's for all the comments.

Helge Volden  I slept in a recliner for more than a month before I could sleep in a bed. I had many of the same problems. I always sleep on my side and the recliner kept ... Read more

Helge Volden  I slept in a recliner for more than a month before I could sleep in a bed. I had many of the same problems. I always sleep on my side and the recliner kept me on my back. Its been a slow process to sleep comfortably in a bed. It was uncomfortable/painful to sleep on my side for about 8 weeks. I am happy to report that after over three months since surgery its a lot better.

Barbara Wood  I had he same sleep problems. I bought a big body pillow & slowly began shifting to my side, just a tiny bit at a time after being home a week. I do want to ... Read more

Barbara Wood  I had he same sleep problems. I bought a big body pillow & slowly began shifting to my side, just a tiny bit at a time after being home a week. I do want to emphasize that my surgeon told me that I could, many people have a different experience! It took me at least a week before I was completely side sleeping - the relief was immense! I'd call my surgeon & ask his opinion on when you could start, oh & I had a full sternotomy. Best recovery wishes Mark:).

Rob Sparling  Though Catie and I had the same surgeon and probably saw saw many of the same nurses, the advice I got was “roll on your side if you want to, you will not ... Read more

Rob Sparling  Though Catie and I had the same surgeon and probably saw saw many of the same nurses, the advice I got was “roll on your side if you want to, you will not break”. It was easier and more comfortable to roll onto my right aside for some reason and I did so in the step down unit and slept that way a couple of hours each night. Otherwise I slept on my back in bed. In the hotel before coming home, I slept on my back and in bed because there was no chair that would work. Once home, I slept in bed even though I stayed in my recliner most of the day when I wasn’t getting my footsteps in. What made a difference for me was taking a dose of Oxy around 7pm, hopping in the shower getting relaxed and organized and then jumping into bed. Those first few nights home I slept lightly but the next week or so was very effective that way. Oddly, I am now sleeping better on my back than on my side or stomach. Which is quite a reversal! This morning I woke up again at 4:05am after logging 5 hours of sleep and fell back asleep but only while laying on my back. I am 3+ months post-op. So try anything/everything to see what works! And what works now may not in three months and vice versa. Cracking the sleep code has yet to happen, it seems.

Tracy Fallu  Our body is confused after surgery with our sleep cycle. During the month+ of recovery, sleep at night was not consistent. Eventually I learned to sleep when ... Read more

Tracy Fallu  Our body is confused after surgery with our sleep cycle. During the month+ of recovery, sleep at night was not consistent. Eventually I learned to sleep when my body wanted to sleep. There were times at night I felt like the only one up in the world. I tended to read/or just rest until I would fall back asleep. The good thing, as you move through recovery, your body will naturally return to its night time REM sleep.

Tom Bartolomei  It took me about 3 weeks before I could attempt the bed. A recliner was the lessor of all evils and provided me the most comfort although back sleeping isn’t ... Read more

Tom Bartolomei  It took me about 3 weeks before I could attempt the bed. A recliner was the lessor of all evils and provided me the most comfort although back sleeping isn’t my thing at all. 3 hours a night of broken sleep...just not good. Then at about 4 weeks I was able to tolerate the bed and a gentle roll to either my left or right. There were still nights where lying on my side just didn’t feel comfortable but they became more infrequent. Yesterday I’m 6 weeks post op and side sleeping is the ticket. Getting 7 hours now but still have those random nights where either side just feels tight and it disturbs my sleep. It’s a lot better than the first 3 weeks though. I’m sure your corner will come soon.

Meredith Bray  After a few weeks, I realized I never really fell all the way asleep in bed because I was afraid I would roll over in my sleep and hurt myself. I found I got ... Read more

Meredith Bray  After a few weeks, I realized I never really fell all the way asleep in bed because I was afraid I would roll over in my sleep and hurt myself. I found I got the BEST and longest rest in my recliner, while using a travel pillow - the kind that supports the head & neck. I also stuffed some regular bed pillows under my arms, so my arm weight wasn't pulling down on my shoulders. I think re-regulating my sleep cycle was the longest side-effect of surgery (other than the whole heart-working-like-it's-supposed-to thing). Good luck, you'll figure out your solution soon.

Meredith
Holiday, FL

Sara Moyce  The back/side issues have been the most difficult part of my post-op (4 weeks). I tried to sleep on my back first few days, including in an ergonomic recliner- ... Read more

Sara Moyce  The back/side issues have been the most difficult part of my post-op (4 weeks). I tried to sleep on my back first few days, including in an ergonomic recliner- the pain was unbearable (long history of back issues). I immediately received thumbs up from my cardiologist and my surgeon to sleep on my sides - 90% of pain alleviated and therefore am able to sleep better. I still wake up every few hours but not a big deal. Just switched from oxy to Advil + melatonin. Hang in there!!😁

Dan Vechiola  I found pain meds at night with a wedge pillow worked for me. I took one med when I went to bed and when I woke up after 3-4 hours I took another with crackers. ... Read more

Dan Vechiola  I found pain meds at night with a wedge pillow worked for me. I took one med when I went to bed and when I woke up after 3-4 hours I took another with crackers. 4 weeks post op was a break thru for me with sleep. Once you get good sleeps in the recovery speeds up.

Tom Bartolomei  I’m going with twice daily application of conventional Vitamin E oil. I’ve read all the pros and cons so not sure its actually doing anything. Surgeon ... Read more

Tom Bartolomei  I’m going with twice daily application of conventional Vitamin E oil. I’ve read all the pros and cons so not sure its actually doing anything. Surgeon recommended it but I do read that its efficacy in terms of helping with the scarring is questionable or even not validated.

Louanna Miller  My surgeon’s Physician Assistant recommended Cica Care from Amazon. I started using it at 7 weeks when the scar was completely healed shut. They are a silicon ... Read more

Louanna Miller  My surgeon’s Physician Assistant recommended Cica Care from Amazon. I started using it at 7 weeks when the scar was completely healed shut. They are a silicon sheet and you cut a strip and cover your scar. I take it off and gently wash it, let it dry and put back on. It can be used until it wears out and then you cut another piece. I think one package will give you 3-4 strips. I think my first strip lasted 2 weeks. It also holds the incision together so that it doesn’t spread.

Anders Carlos  I've used Newgel+. Reading through the medical literature there is a lot of hokum out there. What appears to be the most effective is a combination of silicone ... Read more

Anders Carlos  I've used Newgel+. Reading through the medical literature there is a lot of hokum out there. What appears to be the most effective is a combination of silicone and vit e (keeps the scar soft). What may be the most important variable is the 2x daily massage of the area (which serves to soften the scar and make it more flexible.). I have no idea what the end result will be but my wife (an OB surgeon) seems to think it is doing something and that the scar is fading very rapidly.

David Moore  Hey Mark - My husband David did. It hurt him worse than the sternal incision. Someone told him it was "radial" pain from the drain tubes. It lasted about ... Read more

David Moore  Hey Mark - My husband David did. It hurt him worse than the sternal incision. Someone told him it was "radial" pain from the drain tubes. It lasted about two weeks - on and off. Have your wife give you a GENTLE massage and it helps. - Cheryl

Richard King  Hi Matt, I got it because of fluid retention around the lungs (pleural effusion), a side effect of my surgery. I was on a strong diuretic (lasix) so fluid retention ... Read more

Richard King  Hi Matt, I got it because of fluid retention around the lungs (pleural effusion), a side effect of my surgery. I was on a strong diuretic (lasix) so fluid retention went down quickly overnight, and I felt much better the next day. Hope your's clears up soon!

Charlotte Kaye  I have been through the shoulder thing 2 times: first AVR in 1981 caused left shoulder pain that was horrific, I never got a clear explanation. The pain would ... Read more

Charlotte Kaye  I have been through the shoulder thing 2 times: first AVR in 1981 caused left shoulder pain that was horrific, I never got a clear explanation. The pain would come and go. Second AVR, when they were pulling wires out of my left side, I felt the wires going through the injured part of my left shoulder ( thoracic outlet??) and the wires seemed to move the nerves in my shoulder as they were being pulled out; I never had pain there again. But! I developed the same injury on my right shoulder. I did physical therapy, but it didn't help. One day I needed to lift a heavy bench and there was no one to help me. I decided to bite the bullet - I bent over from my waist and lifted the bench - the pain was excruciating and I heard a crackling sound from my right shoulder- the pain disappeared immediately and never came back. My Father had the same shoulder injury after his AVR. My family came to the conclusion that it might not be possible to brace the shoulder during open heart surgery. My Dad and I agreed that the shoulder pain was the worst part of the AVR.

Louanna Miller  I remember the first time I saw my incision. Three months out and I am not ashamed of it and if it shows I’m fine with that. We earn the scar as we persevere ... Read more

Louanna Miller  I remember the first time I saw my incision. Three months out and I am not ashamed of it and if it shows I’m fine with that. We earn the scar as we persevere through surgery and recovery.

Thankful you are a day closer to hospital discharge.

Dan Baltazor  Good luck today Mark. It's a beautiful day here in the Seattle area, going to be a nice sunny day. That is a good sign for your surgery. We'll be thinking ... Read more

Dan Baltazor  Good luck today Mark. It's a beautiful day here in the Seattle area, going to be a nice sunny day. That is a good sign for your surgery. We'll be thinking and sending prayers for you today. Post when you can, we'll be waiting for it.

Dan Baltazor  Yes, Yes! I wish I had a hospital bed these past 2 weeks. It’s been a real problem trying to get back to normal sleeping pattern. The last time I was truly ... Read more

Dan Baltazor  Yes, Yes! I wish I had a hospital bed these past 2 weeks. It’s been a real problem trying to get back to normal sleeping pattern. The last time I was truly comfortable and able to sleep since my surgeries was back in the hospital. Take it and 🏃!!

David Moore  We went ahead and just invested in a Sleep Number I10 bed that allows both of us to set our heads and feet at different elevations. (Full disclosure - we had ... Read more

David Moore  We went ahead and just invested in a Sleep Number I10 bed that allows both of us to set our heads and feet at different elevations. (Full disclosure - we had an older Sleep Number model we gifted to our guest room). We figured we are getting older and this is the second major surgery in the household. Not to mention it is SOOO comfortable. Fellow heart warriors at our church told David he would have to sleep with his head elevated from now on - so that means a wedge or extra pillows. Good sleep and rest is super important for your overall health. It also has a stop snoring feature - which David will use on me since I can peel paint off the walls thanks to my deviated septum. Anyway..... shopping for one is a lot of fun as well. God bless you - Cheryl

Nancy Luth  I gotta say I slept better in a recliner than in the hospital bed. But I knew the hospital bed was not working for me while I was still in the hospital. I ... Read more

Nancy Luth  I gotta say I slept better in a recliner than in the hospital bed. But I knew the hospital bed was not working for me while I was still in the hospital. I often got up and sat in a chair that was beside my bed

Lisa Guinan  You must be first surgery of the day. So was I. That’s the way to go. I think the actual surgery is tougher on our loved ones than us—we’re asleep and ... Read more

Lisa Guinan  You must be first surgery of the day. So was I. That’s the way to go. I think the actual surgery is tougher on our loved ones than us—we’re asleep and they have to wait. Hope you enjoy the weekend. You’ll be on the recovery side before you know it.

Dan Baltazor  I was also the first one on my surgery day and I was glad it worked out that way for me. You got this Mark. Before you know it you will be on the recovery side. ... Read more

Dan Baltazor  I was also the first one on my surgery day and I was glad it worked out that way for me. You got this Mark. Before you know it you will be on the recovery side. Just try and distract yourself this weekend. Keep busy and stay positive. Thoughts and prayers will be sent your way for both you and your family.

Paul Howarth  I'm day 4 post op. I was just told I get to go home tonight.
I promise you it's not as bad as your thinking it's going to be.
In general my knee surgery ... Read more

Paul Howarth  I'm day 4 post op. I was just told I get to go home tonight.
I promise you it's not as bad as your thinking it's going to be.
In general my knee surgery hurt more.
I know it's easy for people to tell you not to worry. I just want you to know your going to be surprised how they can do such a massive operation and you actually don't feel horrible.
The flu is worse.
I'll pray for you on Tuesday.
It's out of your control now. Your team will take great care of you!
Just stay busy until Tuesday. Your going to do great!
Paul

Bill Pollard  I was in your shoes not long ago as I had open heart surgery on October 15 to replace my calcified and bicuspid aortic valve. I was scared and nervous the morning ... Read more

Bill Pollard  I was in your shoes not long ago as I had open heart surgery on October 15 to replace my calcified and bicuspid aortic valve. I was scared and nervous the morning of the surgery but I had full faith in my surgeon and his medical team with lots of prayers from family and friends. The recovery has been much better than expected. You can check it out on my page. Prayers for a successful surgery and strong recovery.

Jennifer McInerney  You are stronger than you think. The recovery is slow but you’ll be amazed at how quickly it goes. Waiting around prior to surgery was the worst. You need ... Read more

Jennifer McInerney  You are stronger than you think. The recovery is slow but you’ll be amazed at how quickly it goes. Waiting around prior to surgery was the worst. You need mental toughness as much as anything else. I prayed for a peaceful spirit prior to surgery and for me it helped

Dan Baltazor  If they go through your wrist, it’s less recovery time at the hospital post procedure than if they go groin. They went groin on me and my cardiologist told ... Read more

Dan Baltazor  If they go through your wrist, it’s less recovery time at the hospital post procedure than if they go groin. They went groin on me and my cardiologist told me not to go to work the next day. Good luck today!

Mark Jaycox  Was in the hospital for 7 hours even though the procedure was less than an hour. They went through the wrist and thankfully found no blockage so no stints, ... Read more

Mark Jaycox  Was in the hospital for 7 hours even though the procedure was less than an hour. They went through the wrist and thankfully found no blockage so no stints, even though it went great I spent 4 hours in recovery. They’re really cautious before dischargeing you. Everything went fine and am now back home. Surgery in 5 days!

Louanna Miller  Pre-op was a very long day for me. Started at 9 am and we didn’t leave the clinic until 4:45 pm. Thankful that is behind you. The heart cath is very necessary. ... Read more

Louanna Miller  Pre-op was a very long day for me. Started at 9 am and we didn’t leave the clinic until 4:45 pm. Thankful that is behind you. The heart cath is very necessary. Glad you can getbot done and be ready for surgery next week. Take it one day at a time, you will be on the other side of surgery soon.

Rob Sparling  I’ve said it and others have as well.... being a “patient patient” is part of the mental preparation for this gig! You’ve got this, Mark! Keep focused ... Read more

Rob Sparling  I’ve said it and others have as well.... being a “patient patient” is part of the mental preparation for this gig! You’ve got this, Mark! Keep focused on the other side and getting over, through or under all obstacles!

Dan Baltazor  Yes, what Rob and Louanna said. That is a big part of this whole journey. You gotta give yourself over and expect many bumps. Wishing you luck today on your ... Read more

Dan Baltazor  Yes, what Rob and Louanna said. That is a big part of this whole journey. You gotta give yourself over and expect many bumps. Wishing you luck today on your heart cath and that they don't have any findings other than your valve.

Dan Vechiola  I felt the same way as you Mark prior to surgery being asymptomatic. Now that I am 2 months post op and am very close to 100% I consider it a gift to have ... Read more

Dan Vechiola  I felt the same way as you Mark prior to surgery being asymptomatic. Now that I am 2 months post op and am very close to 100% I consider it a gift to have been asymptomatic and know about the condition and the potential dangers. If you are symptomatic that means you waited to long and something is not right with your heart. Get it before it gets you!

Marie Myers  I had similar feelings. My open heart surgery was my first hospital admission. Being asymptomatic does not make you want to jump into surgery. I had to trust ... Read more

Marie Myers  I had similar feelings. My open heart surgery was my first hospital admission. Being asymptomatic does not make you want to jump into surgery. I had to trust that the docs knew what they were talking about, and I had to take a flying leap of faith. Now I am 1 1/2 yrs post AVR, root, and ascending aneurysm resection. The docs are well-trained, and they do this surgery everyday. It is very nerve-wracking during the wait, but know that you will be okay! Wishing you all the best! This website really helped me a lot as well.

Jennifer McInerney  Honestly Mark, my recliner was worth it’s weight in gold. I got an electric one and I’m so glad I did because I don’t think I could have comfortably ... Read more

Jennifer McInerney  Honestly Mark, my recliner was worth it’s weight in gold. I got an electric one and I’m so glad I did because I don’t think I could have comfortably used a manual one. I started sleeping in bed about three weeks after I got home (bliss) but the recliner is still working for naps. I found the hospital beds hard to get out of but others may have a different thought on it. I bought my recliner but lots of people rented one for a month. Hope that helps and best wishes for a successful surgery and recovery.

Lise Bowles  Mark, I did it without a recliner, BUT I had a difficult time because I couldn’t lie down flat! What I did was we have a small couch in our bedroom and I ... Read more

Lise Bowles  Mark, I did it without a recliner, BUT I had a difficult time because I couldn’t lie down flat! What I did was we have a small couch in our bedroom and I put all sorts of cushy pillows on it to keep myself semi reclined! It worked just fine for me, and I was miserable because of pericardial effusions! But guess what? I probably would have been miserable even with a recliner! My point is, with the cushy couch in my bed room and the quantity of pillows, I think I did just the same as I would have done with a recliner. (I don’t really have anywhere to put a recliner so I didn’t want to go buy one for this, just my experience.
Lise

Dan Vechiola  I have a recliner but found the couch and ottoman to work better because I sat straight up and it was easier to get up. I also preferred to sleep in my bed ... Read more

Dan Vechiola  I have a recliner but found the couch and ottoman to work better because I sat straight up and it was easier to get up. I also preferred to sleep in my bed with a wedge pillow. It seemed that the faster I got back to normalcy the faster my recovery was. Sleeping in a recliner on the first floor just didn't feel right and was an illustration that was something was wrong which is why being in bed felt much better.

Barbara Wood  I used a memory foam wedge pillow, about $30-40 from Amazon. We did buy a recliner for our downstairs guest room, but I never used it & gave it away a few months ... Read more

Barbara Wood  I used a memory foam wedge pillow, about $30-40 from Amazon. We did buy a recliner for our downstairs guest room, but I never used it & gave it away a few months later. Like Dan, I just felt more normal sleeping upstairs in our regular bed. I really had no difficulty in getting up from bed or chairs - a recliner just wasn't needed.

Lisa Guinan  I slept in my recliner for about 2 weeks. I just couldn’t get comfortable in bed. In a recliner, more of your weight is on your butt. It also takes awhile ... Read more

Lisa Guinan  I slept in my recliner for about 2 weeks. I just couldn’t get comfortable in bed. In a recliner, more of your weight is on your butt. It also takes awhile before you can lay on your side. I felt I could change positions more in the recliner.

Rob Sparling  Mark, it is a process.... Be patient with yourself and get your homework done and questions answered. By the time you do, you will be wondering if it can come ... Read more

Rob Sparling  Mark, it is a process.... Be patient with yourself and get your homework done and questions answered. By the time you do, you will be wondering if it can come any sooner because the wait sucks. Ricky said it well the other day in Dan B.’s journal that sums it up perfectly. ❤️💪

Dan Vechiola  Distract Distract Distract your mind Mark and then Disract your mind some more. Keep busy and keep pushing it off in your mind until the day of surgery and ... Read more

Dan Vechiola  Distract Distract Distract your mind Mark and then Disract your mind some more. Keep busy and keep pushing it off in your mind until the day of surgery and then march right in and get your new valve. It will the best thing for you and your family and give you the peace of mind you all deserve.

Sommer Russell  We sound identical. My cardiologist set me down in front of the computer 2 weeks ago and went over my Echo's from most recent to 6 months prior. He told me ... Read more

Sommer Russell  We sound identical. My cardiologist set me down in front of the computer 2 weeks ago and went over my Echo's from most recent to 6 months prior. He told me that I could keep trying to out run this, but the end result was still the same. I wasn't going to get any better. My heart was starting to enlarge, though still normal it was on the high end. So, I was referred to thoracic surgery. The surgeon said the same thing and discussed something about a pressure (I tried to hold on to this information, but couldn't understand all of it.) He said his pressure was 100 and he was in his 50's and mine was 150 and I am in my 30's. This was very alarming to him. It wasn't my blood pressure it was something else. My blood pressure has been great. He said that I could wait and plan around my schedule, but sooner rather than later. He explained that we can keep doing this every 3 months, but I wasn't going to be getting any younger or my heart any healthier. Or doing any favors to my heart. That black cloud was the pits. It rained heavy the days leading up to that consult. A few hours later, after I had left the office with a date scheduled, I could breath, again. So much weight lifted. I hope you find peace. Everyone says this is the hardest part. The wait. Not the actual surgery or even the recovery. The hardest part is the wait. I will be able to tell you in a couple of weeks.

Marie Myers  That is a thought decision. Have you already had the consult with the retiring surgeon? If so, what did he think? In my humble opinion, if the surgeon said ... Read more

Marie Myers  That is a thought decision. Have you already had the consult with the retiring surgeon? If so, what did he think? In my humble opinion, if the surgeon said I could wait another 6-12 months, I might go that route. I was asymptomatic also, and if it was not for the 4.8 cm aneurysm, I would still be waiting...

Dan Vechiola  You may want to go to a top cardiac hospital in your area for a second opinion. They usually like to wait to you have symptoms before having surgery. However, ... Read more

Dan Vechiola  You may want to go to a top cardiac hospital in your area for a second opinion. They usually like to wait to you have symptoms before having surgery. However, you are in the severe category and its best to get it before it gets you. It also helps to go into surgery as strong as possible so if you feel that surgery is imminent and you want to have it done by the top surgeon there then I would consider getting it done. The thing is there usually is a reason for having symptoms so as long as it is imminent I recommend having it done.

Rob Sparling  Mark, this is a tough call and a very personal one. I had the same thing but my regurg was severe (though asymptomatic). My cardiologist suggested waiting 6-12 ... Read more

Rob Sparling  Mark, this is a tough call and a very personal one. I had the same thing but my regurg was severe (though asymptomatic). My cardiologist suggested waiting 6-12 months would work (with monitoring). But he also mentioned the length of time I would be extending is not a huge amount in % terms relative to the lifespan of the new valve. In other words, at age 50, it is still a fact that I will have to face the reality of another valve. What real difference if it happens at year X or at X plus 6 months? Another way of looking at it is that you can delay the surgery but that introduces a lot of other uncertainty that might be to your detriment. Consider the advantages of timing and premeditating with team you assembled and compare that scenario to ending up having to make a hurried decision with a team you didnt hand select.

Going sooner than you need is not a good idea. Going too late is risky (and the heart begins to remodel).

Bob Fessler  Mark, I had AVR surgery at Swedish in July 2017 and Dr. Barnhart was my surgeon. I also interviewed Dr. Verrier at UofW. I am 100% happy I went with Dr. Barnhart ... Read more

Bob Fessler  Mark, I had AVR surgery at Swedish in July 2017 and Dr. Barnhart was my surgeon. I also interviewed Dr. Verrier at UofW. I am 100% happy I went with Dr. Barnhart and so far I have no AVR complaints (knock on wood). I had no complications before or after surgery. I had surgery on Friday and went home on Monday. The only complaint I had was the hospital food could be better and I had a very uncomfortable bed for nighttime sleeping. Most of the day I spent in a recliner with my Ipad. The Swedish staff were wonderful. So caring. I’ve heard Dr. Ryan is also good if you need an alternative but I certainly would not hesitate to a repeat with Dr. Barnhart if he was still practicing. I was 66 at the time of surgery so I went with a tissue valve. Dr. Barnhart said if you discount the valves that fail in the first few years for whatever reason, the valves have been lasting 15-20 years. When I need a replacement, whether 10 or 20 years from now, I’m banking on the TAVR procedure being perfected. Good luck with your surgery.

Mark Jaycox  Thanks' Bob, I'm still going through the testing right now. My next test is an MRI which is now scheduled for November 6th. If that test confirms I have severe ... Read more

Mark Jaycox  Thanks' Bob, I'm still going through the testing right now. My next test is an MRI which is now scheduled for November 6th. If that test confirms I have severe stenosis than I believe I can schedule the surgery. It will be real close if I have Dr. Barnhart or not. I have also heard that Dr. Ryan is good so I guess I will go with him if I can't get in to see Barnhart before he retires. I'm glad things went well with your surgery. I hope when I have mine I will have the same results. I'm 57 but have already told the surgeon I want to go with the new Edwards tissue valve that supposedly can last 20-25 years. Like you I'm banking on the TAVR procedure if I ever have to replace it in the future. I'm guessing in 25 years things will look a lot different than they do now and I mean that in a good way.

Ricky Stutts  Mark
I had my surgery ( Aortic valve replacement & aortic aneurysm repair) performed here in Houston last Wednesday September 26. I was released to go home ... Read more

Ricky Stutts  Mark
I had my surgery ( Aortic valve replacement & aortic aneurysm repair) performed here in Houston last Wednesday September 26. I was released to go home on Saturday September 29. I am home this week and plan to go back to work next Monday ( 11/2 weeks post surgery)
Trust your.Surgeon - I had TEE echo & MRI and was advised to move forward.
I have know & worried for many years this day would come. This site and the surgery has shown me to have trust.

Catie B  The surgeons know when it's just the right time. There is a tipping point and you don't want to become very symptomatic and possibly damage your heart. They ... Read more

Catie B  The surgeons know when it's just the right time. There is a tipping point and you don't want to become very symptomatic and possibly damage your heart. They will guide you in the decision making and timing.

Richard Buckley  I hadn't really had any symptoms before having a mitral valve repair three weeks ago. But my surgeon said there was beginning to be some atrial enlargement, ... Read more

Richard Buckley  I hadn't really had any symptoms before having a mitral valve repair three weeks ago. But my surgeon said there was beginning to be some atrial enlargement, so I went for it at a good time. Don't necessarily wait for symptoms.

Susan Lynn  Many of us feel the stress of waiting for surgery is worse than the procedure, itself. Unfortunately, our conditions don't get better on their own. If you ... Read more

Susan Lynn  Many of us feel the stress of waiting for surgery is worse than the procedure, itself. Unfortunately, our conditions don't get better on their own. If you have an option, you will need to make that decision. No one looks forward to surgery, but there are downsides to waiting. Best of luck!

Rob Sparling  Mark, I had AVR same day as Ricky. I am probably going to return to work the last week of Oct. My local cardiologist told me we could wait and monitor. My ... Read more

Rob Sparling  Mark, I had AVR same day as Ricky. I am probably going to return to work the last week of Oct. My local cardiologist told me we could wait and monitor. My cardiologist at CC said we could wait as well, perhaps 6 months or more. But he questioned why wait? CC Surgeon told me day before the surgery I was “well past” the threshold where he would recommend the procedure. So it varies! I am glad I got the timing I did.

Dan Baltazor  Hi Mark, we are in Tacoma. We(Dan) have been exactly where you are now. Just try and take it one test and one test result at a time. We would look too far ... Read more

Dan Baltazor  Hi Mark, we are in Tacoma. We(Dan) have been exactly where you are now. Just try and take it one test and one test result at a time. We would look too far ahead without any real answers and anxiety would be through the roof. Dan is due for AVR within the next month. As others have said, this is a GREAT place to be. Everyone here is an inspiration and has helped us move forward with this. You'll find a lot of great information here. Stephanie

Dan Vechiola  Hi Mark! I had AVR on September 6, 2018. I think it is safe to say that a return to work 2 1/2 to 3 weeks after surgery on a part time basis is doable. I ... Read more

Dan Vechiola  Hi Mark! I had AVR on September 6, 2018. I think it is safe to say that a return to work 2 1/2 to 3 weeks after surgery on a part time basis is doable. I own an insurance agency and that is what I have found. I am walking a mile twice each day which tires you out a bit. Sleeping seems to be the biggest challenge. Back sleeping is new to me and it has taken me a while to get used to but seems to be going better right now. I started out sleeping in my recliner but after a week I then switched to a wedge pillow in my bed. I have found that the quicker you can get back normalcy in your life the better the recovery is. Sleeping in a recliner downstairs in our family room was ok but nothing like sleeping in your bed. Sensitivity in the chest area is the biggest annoyance and I bought the incision shield which helped. Good luck and remember also that everyone's recovery is different.

Marie Myers  I went back to work part time at 8 weeks. But like it has been said, everyone is different.
I rented an electric recliner for a month, and I really liked it. ... Read more

Marie Myers  I went back to work part time at 8 weeks. But like it has been said, everyone is different.
I rented an electric recliner for a month, and I really liked it. It allowed me to get up and down without help. A hospital bed is probably not needed.


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Dan Baltazor  Hi Mark, sorry for your news. I’m in the same boat as you. I found out a little over a week ago and know exactly how you feel. I’m 44 and am also navigating ... Read more

Dan Baltazor  Hi Mark, sorry for your news. I’m in the same boat as you. I found out a little over a week ago and know exactly how you feel. I’m 44 and am also navigating my way through the whole mechanical or tissue valve. We saturated ourselves with too much information the first few days and it caused much anxiety. Good news is that you’ve got time to figure this out. This website is very helpful with some great people and information.

Terry Goin  Hi Guys, 55 here and got similar news about a month ago. I stumbled across this site and feel so lucky that I did. One of the first things I did was download ... Read more

Terry Goin  Hi Guys, 55 here and got similar news about a month ago. I stumbled across this site and feel so lucky that I did. One of the first things I did was download and read Adam's book available here as well. It is a really great starting point.

Marie Myers  I can really sympathize with you. I was in your shoes a couple years ago, with a diagnosis of ascending aortic aneurysm. I had never been admitted to a hospital ... Read more

Marie Myers  I can really sympathize with you. I was in your shoes a couple years ago, with a diagnosis of ascending aortic aneurysm. I had never been admitted to a hospital either at the time. Take it one day at a time, and research all your options. You can get through this.
I eventually decided on tissue valve, but it was a long hard decision process. At 63 years old, I was in that either-is-good- decision zone. Take your time, ask questions, get different opinions. Wish you all the best!

Meredith Geneja  Hi Mark! I am in the identical diagnosis position. Surgery is on Thursday. Like Marie Myers, I have chosen a tissue valve. You will choose the right one for ... Read more

Meredith Geneja  Hi Mark! I am in the identical diagnosis position. Surgery is on Thursday. Like Marie Myers, I have chosen a tissue valve. You will choose the right one for you. We are so fortunate to be able to get great medical help & to have positive community when we are in such need of both. Will be thinking of you and your family. We will do well. Just need to let all our "butterflies" be in peace & fly in unison:)

Willie Radl  Welcome Mark, at 57 you are in the gray area regarding choice of valve. You will find this site to be a great resource to hear from others in your position ... Read more

Willie Radl  Welcome Mark, at 57 you are in the gray area regarding choice of valve. You will find this site to be a great resource to hear from others in your position on what they chose and why. Bottom line is that don't worry you'll get through this surgery and feel better than ever after!! I'm 33 so I went with mechanical valve, like you I felt asymptomatic prior to surgery but can confidently say that I feel even better now with the new valve. I think for some of us its hard to know what "normal" is supposed to feel like when our condition has slowly progressed to a state to which we need surgery.

Joey Hardee  Hey Mark - I am 54 and almost the same diagnosis. I am also getting very close to surgery and have undergone the same battery of tests you have over about that ... Read more

Joey Hardee  Hey Mark - I am 54 and almost the same diagnosis. I am also getting very close to surgery and have undergone the same battery of tests you have over about that same time period. There are about 5 or 6 different procedures to correct a bicuspid valve and wading through those decisions would seem daunting even if the subject wasn't beating inside your own chest. I have been told I am a candidate for the Ross procedure, Aortic Valve repair, a mechanical valve, tissue valve, etc. With all of these possibilities, my cardiologist is recommending a tissue valve (15-20 years) that is made to accept a TAVR later so I would likely not have to undergo a second surgery. He expects the TAVR technology to get significantly better than it already is. I am leaning toward going with his recommendation. Its a personal decision and I wish you the best with making it.