Hello All: Asking for feedback/advice/recommendations on the following two questions. I will be in San Diego after New Year's, and am seeking a cardiologist ...Read more
Hello All: Asking for feedback/advice/recommendations on the following two questions. I will be in San Diego after New Year's, and am seeking a cardiologist and a referral to cardiac rehab. I had surgery six weeks ago, am starting cardiac rehab in another week (a bit more actually), and will only be half-way through the program by the time of my arrival in San Diego for the winter. If anyone knows of a cardiologist that they recommend, and a recommendation to a cardiac rehab program, I would appreciate it. Thanks, Michael
Tom Everson Hi. I Read where SCRIPPS OF LA JOLLA. ( San Diego area) is rated # 27 I have no experience with them ... Read more
Tom Everson Hi. I Read where SCRIPPS OF LA JOLLA. ( San Diego area) is rated # 27 I have no experience with them Google them and check it out It is a start anyway
Hi, and a special hello to those who are "angsting" about their upcoming aortic valve replacement surgery...today I had an appointment with the cardiologist ...Read more
Hi, and a special hello to those who are "angsting" about their upcoming aortic valve replacement surgery...today I had an appointment with the cardiologist who referred me to Northwestern for this surgery, which I had nearly five weeks ago (via mini-thoracotomy). I'm happy to say that I'm walking between two and three miles each day (in one mile increments), doing light housework around the home, and am finally getting back to a more normal sleep rhythm. I've had a few "challenges", and a few minor ones persist, but it's been far less onerous that I expected, and I look forward to beginning cardiac rehab in two weeks. Thanks to all on this site who have so generously shared their experience and wisdom and lent their support. For those who are looking toward their forthcoming surgery, only my best thoughts, and again, the anticipation is the hardest part. Michael
George Gardopee Michael - that’s great to hear that you you are doing well and I’m glad that it was less traumati ... Read more
George Gardopee Michael - that’s great to hear that you you are doing well and I’m glad that it was less traumatic than you expected. Cardiac rehab will likely give you another boost in the right direction. How did the intubation go for you?
Ana Brusso Great to hear of your progress in recovery. Continued good health and God bless you
Klara Čičić Michael this sounds very much like my recovery :) which is good, I think :) in 2 weeks I will also st ... Read more
Klara Čičić Michael this sounds very much like my recovery :) which is good, I think :) in 2 weeks I will also start my cardiac rehab! Good luck with your further recovery!
Susan Lynn Michael- it's always great to read a success story! Our pre-op thoughts can certainly be scary- wai... Read more
Susan Lynn Michael- it's always great to read a success story! Our pre-op thoughts can certainly be scary- waiting definitely is the worst part. Continued success with your recovery!
Miriam St.Clair I'm so glad you're doing well and most importantly, up and about and walking those distances.
I'm a few days short of three weeks from aortic valve surgery at Northwestern here in Chicago. All has gone well, and I'm very ...Read more
Hi and Good Morning:
I'm a few days short of three weeks from aortic valve surgery at Northwestern here in Chicago. All has gone well, and I'm very glad to have had this forum as both a source of support and resource.
I'm hoping to get feedback from those who participate in this website regarding: 1) If others experienced periodic nausea after surgery, most particularly after sitting for a while; and, 2) How long others had problems returning to more normal sleep cycle, and any tips for helping with that (I'm taking 3mg of melatonin currently - helps a bit but I've never had a sleep issue before).
Again, thanks to all and good thoughts to all who are in the que for surgery - the waiting truly is the hardest part...
Michael
Rose Madura Hi Michael, I would get nauseous at certain odors - like peppermint which was odd. Things that never ... Read more
Rose Madura Hi Michael, I would get nauseous at certain odors - like peppermint which was odd. Things that never bothered me before. Sleep will get better in time. I used lots of pillows and would then sleep for a couple hours and then go downstairs to a recliner and travel pillow for the rest of the night. It took a while for good sleep came back. But it will get better in time. Hang in there.
Klara Čičić I had postoperative nausea for a week and then it went away. Zofran (ondansetron) helped. I am 3 week ... Read more
Klara Čičić I had postoperative nausea for a week and then it went away. Zofran (ondansetron) helped. I am 3 weeks postop and sleeping is interrupted, I wake up 2-3 times during night, mostly due to pain in my thorax. I am not overly concerned by insomnia cause I believe as the pain starts to subside, sleep will also get better.
Ana Brusso I didn’t have nausea but it did take a few weeks for a good night sleep. It’s different for every ... Read more
Ana Brusso I didn’t have nausea but it did take a few weeks for a good night sleep. It’s different for everyone.
Rita Savelis Never had nausea ever since I spoke to anasthesiologist beforehand and told her that I tend to get na ... Read more
Rita Savelis Never had nausea ever since I spoke to anasthesiologist beforehand and told her that I tend to get nausea when I wake up from surgery. The more info one gives an anasthesiologist the better as they can concoct an individualised potion for you. As far as sleep goes, it can be hard to sleep for weeks after surgery. One is in discomfort and even though you might be exhausted it's still hard to sleep. I asked my doctor for a sleep aid to take every few days because one's body NEEDS sleep. I don't know anyone who slept well after surgery. Heavy sigh. But I did learn to sleep on my back after 6 uncomfortable weeks. Now I can easily sleep on my back. I did take A LOT of naps even when I couldn't sleep at night. Take care. Wish you the best.
Marie Myers I did have some nausea, despite antiemetics. Mine was more related to narcotic pain meds which I quic ... Read more
Marie Myers I did have some nausea, despite antiemetics. Mine was more related to narcotic pain meds which I quickly discontinued. As far as sleep goes, it was very hard to get more than 2-3 hours of sleep at a time, even when I got home. Luckily, I had no responsibilities, so I could just nap whenever I felt the need. I did have an uncomplicated recovery, and did feel well enough to go back to work part time at 8 weeks.
I'm 12 days post-op with an aortic valve replacement and simply wanted to check in. First, thanks to all whose wisdom was shared with me ...Read more
Hello All:
I'm 12 days post-op with an aortic valve replacement and simply wanted to check in. First, thanks to all whose wisdom was shared with me going into surgery, and who also so generously offered their support: both were helpful and very appreciated. For those who are about to have an open heart procedure either imminently or in the more distant future, I simply want to offer my support and share the following that others offered me: the waiting is the hardest part (most often - and with a nod to Tom Petty), move about as quickly as you are able to do so - always safely, be patient and compassionate with yourself, and ask for help (the hardest for me - I have an unhealthy need to be independent and love being outdoors). I have far more to do both physically and likely psychologically, but I can see around this corner, and it will be ok, one day at a time - one breadth at a time, actually.
Gratefully,
Michael
Ana Brusso Oh Michael, so good to hear from you and that you are doing well. Ye for mentioning Tom Petty, sorely ... Read more
Ana Brusso Oh Michael, so good to hear from you and that you are doing well. Ye for mentioning Tom Petty, sorely missed. You are right about moving as quickly as possible but being careful. God bless you and continued good health and recovery.
Ed Eller Glad to hear you are doing so well! Your comments are even more meaningful to me now since I'm a wee ... Read more
Ed Eller Glad to hear you are doing so well! Your comments are even more meaningful to me now since I'm a week away from my surgery.
George Gardopee It’s good to hear it worked out well for you. You will likely be surprised at how quickly you will ... Read more
George Gardopee It’s good to hear it worked out well for you. You will likely be surprised at how quickly you will get back to normal.
michael swarzman Thanks to you all - more to follow from and for each of us.
Pamela Gregory Thanks for the encouraging message. 6 days for me left to wait and it is sure nice to read a post lik ... Read more
Pamela Gregory Thanks for the encouraging message. 6 days for me left to wait and it is sure nice to read a post like this
Rose Madura So glad you are doing well Michael. Your words of wisdom are spot on.
Susan Eckermann Happy to hear you are doing well. Blessings for continued recovery and strength.
Kristian M. Michael glad your surgery went well!! True, one day at a time.
Final post before surgery tomorrow morning. I've had a full day - lots of time outdoors, but also significant time waiting for the call with my arrival time ...Read more
Final post before surgery tomorrow morning. I've had a full day - lots of time outdoors, but also significant time waiting for the call with my arrival time - came late in the afternoon, and I'm a "first case" and I'm glad about that. All the process since diagnosis of a "murmur" several decades coming to its treatment event tomorrow - an AVR replacement via mini thoracotomy - and then rehab, recovery, and the next phase of my life. I'm going to do my best to sleep this evening, and will get up early and go for a brief walk along the lake before going with my wife and youngest daughter, who flew in, to Northwestern. Thanks to all who so generously share their experience on this site. Please send your support and best wishes, and I'll (continue) to do my best to reciprocate.
Best thoughts/wishes/prayers to all.
Michael
George Gardopee We are all wishing you good luck and a quick recovery. Like you I was asymptomatic and I’ll always ... Read more
George Gardopee We are all wishing you good luck and a quick recovery. Like you I was asymptomatic and I’ll always believe that helped with recovery. I’ll bet you find that this will not be nearly as hard as you have imagined.
Kristian M. Michael you'll do fine!! good luck in your surgery. Wishing you the best!
Ana Brusso Michael I am lifting you up in prayer for your surgery tomorrow to be successful and your recovery sm ... Read more
Ana Brusso Michael I am lifting you up in prayer for your surgery tomorrow to be successful and your recovery smooth. God bless you and your family. We will be waiting here to welcome you into recovery. 🙏❤️
Donna Casaletto Good luck and sending you speedy recovery wishes!
Susan Eckermann Praying for you Michael. You are strong, have a great mindset and the support of family & friends.... Read more
Susan Eckermann Praying for you Michael. You are strong, have a great mindset and the support of family & friends. Soon you will be through this trial and on the road to recovery. All the best to you! You've got this.
Rose Madura Praying for a successful surgery and uneventful recovery!
Pamela Gregory Sending my best thoughts and prayers to you
Good morning: It's a very typical Midwest day - cool and crisp. After writing I'm going for a walk along Lake Michigan - it's something I always enjoy and ...Read more
Good morning: It's a very typical Midwest day - cool and crisp. After writing I'm going for a walk along Lake Michigan - it's something I always enjoy and will be especially calming this morning. Tomorrow I have my aortic valve replacement at Northwestern. It's been a long time coming, and in the immortal words of Tom Petty, the waiting is the hardest part (although that hasn't been tested, from all the excellent feedback on prior posts, and my intuition about anxiety, I think it's quite likely). I'm largely accepting of what's to come, excited to begin recovery, and also, intermittently, quite anxious, particularly given that I'm asymptomatic, so enjoy being outdoors, and also like taking care of myself (to an almost unhealthy degree) and know I'll be highly dependent upon others for a while. I've learned a lot going through this process, and I'm sure I'll learn more in the days and weeks ahead. I'd appreciate any last second advice or support and, once again, thank you.
Susan Lynn Michael - If you're in good physical condition and you're having a minimally invasive procedure, ... Read more
Susan Lynn Michael - If you're in good physical condition and you're having a minimally invasive procedure, you may not be terribly dependent on anyone once you get through your first day or so in the hospital. Prepare to be tired - like exhausted kind of tired - for awhile. But, I did pretty much everything on my own. I didn't require any assistance with walking, showering, etc. and was at home alone all day one week after leaving the hospital. I even began working my part-time job from home four days after surgery. My biggest suggestion is to embrace whatever recovery your body will allow and don't focus too much on what you "think" is ahead. I have a feeling you're going to be a total rock star! Best of luck to you - we'll be awaiting your good news!
Susan Eckermann I can relate to this, Michael. I too have always been very healthy and independent. No prior heart... Read more
Susan Eckermann I can relate to this, Michael. I too have always been very healthy and independent. No prior heart issues or even slightly serious medical issues prior to my diagnosis. As I await my surgery date, I have many of the same feelings. Being dependent on others is just not me. But, we will need to lean on others to get through our surgeries and make strong, successful recoveries. Reading the posts is so reassuring. We are fortunate to live in the era of amazing medical technology. Valve repairs and replacements are no longer rare, and are successfully done every day throughout the world. Patients are posting from the hospital, hours after their surgeries! Each day, each hour really, these heart warriors are recovering, healing, and getting stronger. You will soon be there. No more worrying about if/when, your valve is going to act up and cause serious medical issues. You'll be as good as, or better than new and doing all the activities you enjoy! Wishing you a day of goodness and strength. You've got this! I look forward to reading your updates and will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
michael swarzman Thank you both for your comments - they are helpful. The day is alternately racing and quite slow - ... Read more
michael swarzman Thank you both for your comments - they are helpful. The day is alternately racing and quite slow - each time my phone rings I hope it's the scheduler from Northwestern but not quite yet - it will come when it comes. I think the fear of dependence is related to loss of personal control, the essence of what tomorrow feels like, no? May post again later today, and thank you both - particularly the rock star reference (something that has been unique to me!).
I'm having my surgery Friday at Northwestern and have posted before - mini thoracotomy to replace my aortic valve. My pre-surgery jitters have been up and ...Read more
I'm having my surgery Friday at Northwestern and have posted before - mini thoracotomy to replace my aortic valve. My pre-surgery jitters have been up and down - and were beginning to amp up again this morning so I turned to the community section of the website after concluding a mild workout. To my surprise and good fortune, this morning's featured surgeon is the one doing my surgery, Dr. Malaisrie. I'm going in with the best attitude I'm able to muster, and keep reading the posts and comments which I find both inspiring and continue to add to my knowledge base - thanks to all for that. Am grabbing the leash shortly and taking Ernie, the wonder-dog, for a nice walk in this Midwestern fall weather. Two days until I begin my recovery...and thanks again to all - will likely check in again tomorrow (if not earlier!).
Gratefully, MIchael
Klara Čičić Everything will be fine. If I had done it, spoiled last child out of six, with pain and discomfort in ... Read more
Klara Čičić Everything will be fine. If I had done it, spoiled last child out of six, with pain and discomfort intolerance, than everyone can! It's my second postoperative day and it is better since the tubes are out today. Stay positive, it will all be fine! It was funny when my anesteziologist started anestezia he told me: you'll sleep for five minutes and wake up, don't worry. It was cute cause to you it really feels like few minutes :))
Marie Myers The preop time is a rollercoaster of emotions. Do something really nice for yourself in this time. (I ... Read more
Marie Myers The preop time is a rollercoaster of emotions. Do something really nice for yourself in this time. (I got a relaxing massage..)
Angela Meletiadis Do things that you enjoy and be at peace. May God bless you and grant you a successful surgery!
Pamela Gregory I will be sending positive thoughts and prayers your way for a successful surgery
Rose Madura After your surgery, you'll wonder why you worried. You are in good hands. Please keep us updated.
michael swarzman Thanks - was going to try and sleep but that didn't work, so came down and looked at the site - this ... Read more
michael swarzman Thanks - was going to try and sleep but that didn't work, so came down and looked at the site - this helped.
Marie Myers Glad this site is helping you. I know I got a lot of comfort from reading all these stories during my ... Read more
Marie Myers Glad this site is helping you. I know I got a lot of comfort from reading all these stories during my preop waiting time. It is mind-boggling just how many heart surgeries are performed daily!
Thomas Brusstar I had a mitral repair at Northwestern in 2018. Went great. Went in on a Tuesday and was home for di ... Read more
Thomas Brusstar I had a mitral repair at Northwestern in 2018. Went great. Went in on a Tuesday and was home for dinner Friday. Dr. McCarthy did mine.
Hello and thank you to all who commented - I'm glad that I waited until I commented back as I gained from each and every comment.
I should have added that I'm having a mini-thoracotomy (I hope I spelled that correctly, not an open chest surgery) -has anyone had that procedure? From what I've been told by the surgeon and team, as well as read, that's markedly different and less invasive, but the length of stay remains similar.
Marie Myers Yes, mini or maxi ( I had maxi), it is still open heart surgery. Be patient with yourself in recovery ... Read more
Marie Myers Yes, mini or maxi ( I had maxi), it is still open heart surgery. Be patient with yourself in recovery!
Holly Wale Michael - welcome to the group. I had minimally invasive AVR on 10/6/21 (almost to my 1 year anniversary). That may be a bit different than the mini-thoracotomy but happy to share my experience.
My surgery was on a Wednesday morning. I was discharged on Friday afternoon. The first two days were rough with the chest tube in but once that was out and I was up and walking - my recovery was pretty swift to about the 90% mark (my opinion). I was back at work in 3 weeks. I have walked 2 miles (or more) daily since about 2 weeks after my surgery.
My incision area really did not hurt much at all. My main soreness was just in moving about with my chest and arms. My leg/groin were definitely sore from the bypass machine so I could not sleep on my left side for quite some time (maybe 2 or 3 months). ... Read more
Holly Wale Michael - welcome to the group. I had minimally invasive AVR on 10/6/21 (almost to my 1 year anniversary). That may be a bit different than the mini-thoracotomy but happy to share my experience.
My surgery was on a Wednesday morning. I was discharged on Friday afternoon. The first two days were rough with the chest tube in but once that was out and I was up and walking - my recovery was pretty swift to about the 90% mark (my opinion). I was back at work in 3 weeks. I have walked 2 miles (or more) daily since about 2 weeks after my surgery.
My incision area really did not hurt much at all. My main soreness was just in moving about with my chest and arms. My leg/groin were definitely sore from the bypass machine so I could not sleep on my left side for quite some time (maybe 2 or 3 months).
A few minor things still bother me - I cannot prop myself up on my right elbow which seems like such an odd thing to even notice but I guess I do it a lot! It does not really hurt when I do it - but later my whole rib cage feels rattled so now I just pay attention to NOT doing that!
Sleeping is okay - I get by but it took about 6 months to really figure out how to get comfortable to sleep. My biggest thing there was not using my elbow to turn over. I just got out of bed - and got back in the way I wanted to sleep.
My scar is small but noticeable.
Since all of this will hopefully add decades to my time here to enjoy with my family -- I think it for sure was worth it!
Happy to share other details if you or others have questions!
michael swarzman Happy anniversary and thanks for your note - appreciate all the information.
Susan Lynn Michael - I had a mini-thoracotomy for the entry for my heart surgery. I had surgery Friday mornin... Read more
Susan Lynn Michael - I had a mini-thoracotomy for the entry for my heart surgery. I had surgery Friday morning and was released on Monday after lunch. The surgery is the same, only the entry is different. As Holly mentioned, an incision in the groin is required for connection to the bypass. There may also be numbness, pins and needles, and even shooting pains in your side for a year or more, if your surgeon is going to be freezing your nerves as part of the procedure. I would have the mini-thoracotomy again in a second, but you really need to understand what is involved before making your final decision.
michael swarzman Thanks Susan - as I'm "good to go" this Friday, I may just ask the question. There was no mention of ... Read more
michael swarzman Thanks Susan - as I'm "good to go" this Friday, I may just ask the question. There was no mention of any nerve freezing when I met with him at NU - I don't think that's part of his process. Thanks for your comments. Michael
Hello and Good Morning - I'm having surgery this coming Friday at Northwestern - aortic valve replacement. My anxiety is amping up, but still sleeping well ...Read more
Hello and Good Morning - I'm having surgery this coming Friday at Northwestern - aortic valve replacement. My anxiety is amping up, but still sleeping well although our dog is enjoying my feeding him earlier! I finished Adam's book and found that helpful, although the section on the day of surgery, and stay in the CICU tapped into fears regarding being intubated post-surgery (even though it's relatively short). I'm asymptomatic: still exercising virtually daily but realize the surgery is necessary - focused on cardiac rehab as soon as possible (the order is already in at a fine hospital closer to my home). Appreciate good thoughts as this week speeds by and thanks to all.
Michael
George Gardopee Hi Michael. I bet that you will do very well this Friday. I too was terrified of the intubation to th ... Read more
George Gardopee Hi Michael. I bet that you will do very well this Friday. I too was terrified of the intubation to the point I would have middle-of-the-night anxiety attacks. it turned out to be not that bad - not nearly as much as I feared. I thought I would be choking and gagging, but they apparently put something in your throat that suppresses the gag reflex. I can recommend a YouTube video that I and others on this site found to be helpful with respect to the breathing tube.
I was also asymptomatic and about the same age as you (69 when I had the surgery last fall). I found the sternotomy to be not very painful. You’ll likely be out of the ICU in a day or two and back to close to normal quickly. Good luck!
Brady Busch Hello Michael,the tubes were really a nothing burger for me.They might have taken them out,while stil ... Read more
Brady Busch Hello Michael,the tubes were really a nothing burger for me.They might have taken them out,while still being sedated.There were three at the abdomen.to drain off excess liquid,that felt a little unusual coming out,is all.The only one that caused discomfort,was going to the bladder.The young nurse,Joseph told me,it was going to hurt,Wow no kidding!It felt like he tore me a new one,coming out of the urethra.Do girls have it easier,regarding this?All the tubes though,aren't really a big deal,looking back at the whole experience.
Bob Rini Good luck, Michael! I just did this two weeks ago, and know it's scary but you will be happy once its ... Read more
Bob Rini Good luck, Michael! I just did this two weeks ago, and know it's scary but you will be happy once its over and you're on the recovery trail.
Bob Rini Removing the chest drainage tubes a couple days after surgery felt a little strange but wasn’t pain ... Read more
Bob Rini Removing the chest drainage tubes a couple days after surgery felt a little strange but wasn’t painful. Neither was removing the catheter ( but it felt like I had to pee, is all). Dont worry about it; you will breathe easier once they’re out,
Rose Madura Michael, it's so normal to have anxiety prior to your surgery. I was still intubated when I woke up a ... Read more
Rose Madura Michael, it's so normal to have anxiety prior to your surgery. I was still intubated when I woke up and it was awkward, once I realized what was going on, I was ok and they took it out shortly thereafter. All should go smoothly for you. Trust the professionals and try to stay calm. You'll receive good care, I'm sure. Please keep us posted. Godspeed.
michael swarzman Hello and thank you to all who commented - I'm glad that I waited until I commented back as I gained from each and every comment.
I should have added that I'm having a mini-thoracotomy (I hope I spelled that correctly, not an open chest surgery) -has anyone had that procedure? From what I've been told by the surgeon and team, as well as read, that's markedly different and less invasive, but the length of stay remains similar.
michael swarzman Hello and thank you to all who commented - I'm glad that I waited until I commented back as I gained from each and every comment.
I should have added that I'm having a mini-thoracotomy (I hope I spelled that correctly, not an open chest surgery) -has anyone had that procedure? From what I've been told by the surgeon and team, as well as read, that's markedly different and less invasive, but the length of stay remains similar.
Thanks again - very sincerely - for your comments and support.
Hi - I received a call yesterday that my surgery date needed to be changed - I had a choice and opted for a new date that is two weeks earlier than the original ...Read more
Hi - I received a call yesterday that my surgery date needed to be changed - I had a choice and opted for a new date that is two weeks earlier than the original date - I'm now having my aortic valve replaced on Friday, September 30th rather than October 11th. I'm working hard at recasting my mindset as I'm linear and like things orderly, but think that this may ultimately be a good thing (regardless, my original date is no longer an option). Have a host of tests to complete and people to notify, and also looking for support where I can get it from people who've had similar experience with this type of change.
Thanks again to all who share their inspiring stories - so helpful and encouraging!
Michael
Kristine Schroeder Hey Michael. My surgery date slid 19 days later (this past July). When you’re ready, you’re ready ... Read more
Kristine Schroeder Hey Michael. My surgery date slid 19 days later (this past July). When you’re ready, you’re ready….just keep your eye on the prize!
Ana Brusso Linear or not you will be ready Michael. Some of us have had our surgery dates changed and here we ar ... Read more
Ana Brusso Linear or not you will be ready Michael. Some of us have had our surgery dates changed and here we are. You will get all your tests done on time and your surgical team will be ready to perform a successful surgery on you and we will be here to welcome you into recovery. Hang in there. I will be praying for you and your surgical team and all will be ok. God bless you 🙏❤️
michael swarzman Thanks so much Kristine and Ana - appreciate your counsel and prayer - and my focus is becoming incre ... Read more
michael swarzman Thanks so much Kristine and Ana - appreciate your counsel and prayer - and my focus is becoming increasingly targeted - thank you!!!
Kristian M. Michael, I was hospitalized on a Saturday and was told my surgery was on that following Tuesday... in ... Read more
Kristian M. Michael, I was hospitalized on a Saturday and was told my surgery was on that following Tuesday... in just a few days I got all tests done. I was not mentally prepared to get surgery that soon but look at it on the positive side, you'll be done with it in no time and on to recovery phase!... good luck to you and stay positive everything will be fine.
Rose Madura I think it would have been easier for me to have the date moved up instead of delayed like it was. Fo ... Read more
Rose Madura I think it would have been easier for me to have the date moved up instead of delayed like it was. For some reason that delay really messed with me. You will get through it all in fine fashion. And we will be here for you!
Mohammed Abdulrahman Hi Kristine what kind of surgery they are performed?, repairing or replacing vlaves?
michael swarzman Hi - writing this morning to thank everyone again and do a quick update. With the help of Northweste ... Read more
michael swarzman Hi - writing this morning to thank everyone again and do a quick update. With the help of Northwestern I was able to complete most tests this morning, which was very helpful. With help of meditation and friends/family I'm getting used to the idea of the accelerated date, and after reading everyone's posted comments, accepting the "upside" of the new date - I think I'm close to garden variety anxiety again! Will keep checking in, sending others my best thoughts as their surgery dates arrive, and accepting good wishes from all as my date approaches on the 30th. Thanks again for your experience and support. Michael
Kimberly Eisenhut Michael, I will most likely get my surgery with Dr,. Malaisrie also, but for my Tricuspid valve, some ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Michael, I will most likely get my surgery with Dr,. Malaisrie also, but for my Tricuspid valve, some time in the future. Unfortunaltely I have to wait until it is severe to have surgery. I did have a phone consult with Dr. Malaisrie last winter and it did ease my mind just a little. I look forward to your updates and pray your mind stays as calm and positive as possible. Glad you have family and this site to support you and send positivity your way! I am in Woodstock, so going to see my cardiologis,t Dr. Rigolin, at Northwestern Bluhm in Chicago is a 2 hour drive, but well worth it! You will be in very good hands, no worries :)
My aortic valve repair is in one month at Northwestern in Chicago - I'm asymptomatic but tests indicate that dilation is occurring and window is now - I've ...Read more
My aortic valve repair is in one month at Northwestern in Chicago - I'm asymptomatic but tests indicate that dilation is occurring and window is now - I've enjoyed the summer and have geared up (along with anxiety). Reading everyone's stories this summer has buoyed my spirits - thanks for the gift of your courage and candor! - will keep tuned as my October 11th arrives...and recovery begins.
Adam Pick Hi Michael - Great to hear the patient stories here are helping you along your journey to a healthy ... Read more
Adam Pick Hi Michael - Great to hear the patient stories here are helping you along your journey to a healthy heart! Fyi, you are in GREAT hands with Dr. Malaisrie. I have been fortunate to have worked with Dr. Malaisrie for 10 years. Many, many, many patients in our community have had excellent results with Dr. Malaisrie and the NM team. I'll post a few videos for you to check out. If you need anything, please let me know. I'm here to help!
https://www.Heart-Valve-Surgery.com - See how 4D MRI is advancing bicuspid aortic valve diagnosis and therapy in this patient success story with John Pascare...
https://www.Heart-Valve-Surgery.com - Now, more than ever, leading cardiac surgeons are using new techniques to help patients keep their own heart valve tiss...
https://www.Heart-Valve-Surgery.com - Watch the patient success story of Tom Tansor who needed a Valve Sparing Aortic Root Replacement procedure performed by...
Klara Čičić That's great Michael, this community was helpful for me, too! I hope everything turns out fine for yo ... Read more
Klara Čičić That's great Michael, this community was helpful for me, too! I hope everything turns out fine for you. We are here to cheer eachother :)
Kimberly Eisenhut I have spoken to Dr. Malaisrie also about surgery for my Tricuspid valve, and he told me I am still ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut I have spoken to Dr. Malaisrie also about surgery for my Tricuspid valve, and he told me I am still in wait and watch mode for now. Tricuspid needs to be severe before they go in, which is sometimes quite scary for me, but guess there is not much I can do about it but wait as told. I tried getting an appointment to speak with Dr. Macarthy because I know he has more experience with tricuspid, but was told he rarely does surgery any more. I hope you feel confident with Dr, Malaisrie and wish you all the best. I do know his team is great and have spoken to his nurse a couple times, and they are so kind and understanding and willing to answer questions you have at any time. Look forward to your recovery and seeing your smiling face when all is done and behind you!
Rose Madura You are in good hands at Northwestern. Godspeed.
Hi - I live in Evanston, Illinois and am having aortic valve replacement surgery at Northwestern in October. I'm asymptomatic except (of course!) that my aorta ...Read more
Hi - I live in Evanston, Illinois and am having aortic valve replacement surgery at Northwestern in October. I'm asymptomatic except (of course!) that my aorta is dilating and my heart is graduating enlarging: it's time. I'd like to connect with others with similar diagnoses and/or others who live nearby (Chicago area) - thanks - my email is MASwarzman@gmail.com. Have a splendid day! Michael
Kimberly Eisenhut Hello Michael, I live in Woodstock, but go to Northwestern for cardiac care with Dr. Rigolin and hav... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Hello Michael, I live in Woodstock, but go to Northwestern for cardiac care with Dr. Rigolin and have spoken to Dr. Malaisrie about my tricuspid regurgitation and aneurytic aortic artery. He told me he would wait and watch at this point and carefully watch symptoms. Tricuspid surgery is a little more risky and they just do not do them until it becomes severe is what I have learned. I look forward to seeing how you are and your experience with Dr. Malaisrie and his team at Northwestern. My next visit is in November for stress echo and speak to Dr. Rigolin. I am a single mom with my youngest son, 17, who lives with me. I am 57 and worry quite a bit about what the future holds for us. My family does not seem to take any interest in my diagnosis these past 7 years and this site helps me to feel a little less alone. If you'd like to talk or just lift each other up when we need it, I'd be more than happy to be a heart friend