MaryAnne's Posts

Hi MaryAnne- similarly to you, I had a valve replacement back in 2016, but it was double valve and it my second one. And then I had to have #3 OHS unfortunately last July. I've been on blood thinners for 10 years now. While they are a pain in certain ways and interact with a lot of drugs, supplements, etc, I have learned how to manage it and don't think much about it. I do home testing which is covered by my insurance and it's very convenient and easy with just a finger stick. It sounds like you will be going to a great hospital, so you'll be in good hands there! Just remember how you can't use your arms for much while on sternal precautions, so practice now in using your butt and legs to stand without using your arms. You've been through this before, so at least you know what to expect for the most part. I have learned that many people find repeat surgeries easier because of that. I'm sending lots of strength to you. I know it's scary but chances are good that you will do well.

I'm glad I could help. I'm not on here much but I pop on at times, and I especially feel for people who need multiple OHS. I never expected to need 3 and I was terrified beforehand so I know what it feels like. I'm grateful to be in this world still!

OHS is never easy but a second OHS is easier because you know what to expect. I can't add much as you already had the experience. One thing to (re)consider is the mechanical valve. I don't know your age but wouldn't another tissue valve make sense if you are a candidate for it? And what about tissue-in-tissue now or in the future should a new tissue valve fail again? These are things I would discuss with the possible surgeons. And talk to at least a couple of surgeons. As for blood thinner, I don't take warfarin which is probably what you will have to take if get a mechanical valve. That means you have to check your diet. But otherwise, I don't think blood thinner is a big deal. Yes, bleeding takes longer to stop, you bruise up more, more nose bleeds, etc. I am pretty active handling tools, etc and being on blood thinner hasn't been a big issue for me.

Thanks Robert. I chose a mechanical valve mainly because I did not qualify for a TAVR and don't want to go through OHS again if possible. I am definitely way over 39 in age lol so don't want to go thru again this in my 80's. Thank you for your thoughts and hope you are doing well!

If you get an OnX valve, you may be able to use Plavix rather than warfarin, if you qualify (I have a clotting disorder, so I didn't), so ask your cardiologist to do some blood tests if that's the valve you're going with. Other than that, the second surgery is both better and worse because you know what's coming! Since it's been so long since your last one, recovery may be a bit slower, so be kind to yourself, be patient, and don't let the ups and downs of recovery make you feel low. You got this.

Wishing you all the best and once you get the dosing and food down warfarin isn't too bad. Like a similar post I was able to do home testing which is super easy and now Im at one testing per month I started warfarin last June after mechanical mitral valve. I worry too about having another open heart surgery but youre in great hands and we're all here to support you.❤️

Hi MaryAnne! Yes, OHS is always a little scary -- but I, like you, faced two valve replacements. My first was in 2013 and had my bicuspid valve replaced with a bovine valve at age 46 by a top surgeon in cardiovascular surgery. I had a Trifecta valve, which apparently was the up and coming valve, but failed early in many recipients, so I was thankful my lasted as long as it did. (My first surgeon felt they needed to work out more issues with the Ross Procedure back then so didn't offer it). Then in June 2025 my valve began to fail, but I was able to do the Ross Procedure this time by a surgeon who did most of the re-ops of my original surgeon who is now retired. I was more apprehensive this time knowing that I was older, but did have a better idea what to expect and was hopeful that they could do the Ross once they were in there. I had written a song after my last surgery that I recorded prior to my Ross Procedure -- and it actually helped wake me up when I was still out from the anesthesia! That said, I won't say this time was easier by any means and had different challenges, but take it one step at a time -- and just make sure you always have someone with you in the hospital and that they are aware of any allergies or sensitivities you may have! This time I also got sternal plates since it was my second surgery, so you may want to ask about that! (I only had to take low dose aspirin for the first few months with the Ross, so can't answer about blood thinners since I really don't tolerate them.) Coming up on my one-year anniversary and very thankful! I will pray all goes smoothly for you and that you are able to get all of the answers you need to help you feel more comfortable and less stressed before your surgery!

Hi MaryAnne, glad everything went well. I'm 2 weeks post op and last week I had my checkup with my cardiologist. He said you have PE but it will be taken care of with anti-inflammatory medicine Naproxen since it's very minimal. He also said he has seen lots of cases with PE after surgery. So if your PE is minimal don't be alarmed the medicine will work. If the liquid doesn't go away the procedure will be a needle in the stomach he even told me it's a very simple procedure (don't think this will be the case) Hope this helps. Keep on resting and wish you a fast recovery. You can read my journal as well.

I know Claire I am too but I allow myself one panic attack a day and then the rest of the time read about all the successful stories on this site and know I will be joining them. You will be too! Hang in there...we will make it! Faith and trust in the great doctors who will be taking care of us And in our God.

Thinking of all of you, and finding all the recovery stories an inspiration. Have pre-admission tests and my lung CT and function test on Monday (tip to anyone having angiogram... Don't breath shallowly when relax you - low SAO2 means arterial blood test! Ouch!) so I feel I'm not far behind you now (16 Nov).

It is so nice to hear others are nervous too. Sometimes I feel as if I am over-reacting, but this is a HUGE deal! I think we are a wonderful power source for each other! My mom and I have made my "heart pillow" for after surgery and I am having all of my friends and family sign it. This helps take my mind off of my fears and place my thoughts on all those who are cheering for me! God has us in the palm of His hands!