Just watched the great interview with Dr. El-Hamamsy about the Ross procedure. In 2017 I had my aortic valve replaced in an open heart surgery with a bovine ...Read more
Just watched the great interview with Dr. El-Hamamsy about the Ross procedure. In 2017 I had my aortic valve replaced in an open heart surgery with a bovine valve. 3 years later it failed and had a bovine TAVR. If I need another replacement is a Ross procedure a possibility? (PLEASE say yes :)
Adam Pick Mike, As with all patient situations, I encourage you to discuss this with your doctor when/if the ... Read more
Adam Pick Mike, As with all patient situations, I encourage you to discuss this with your doctor when/if the time comes for a "tune-up". That said, I do believe it is possible to have a Ross Procedure performed IF your biological aortic cow valve needs a replacement in the future. Again... Always best to check with your medical team given your specific patient situation, anatomy, etc.
Just watched the video / interview with Dr. Michael Acker about the future of heart valve surgery....regarding that future - Open heart surgery to replace aortic ...Read more
Just watched the video / interview with Dr. Michael Acker about the future of heart valve surgery....regarding that future - Open heart surgery to replace aortic valve (1/6/17) - been there done that. TAVR to replace failed bovine aortic valve (6/23/20) - been there done that. When this valve fails, and it will....just don't know when...what is next?
Marie Myers Good question ;I don’t know if you can have TAVR in a TAVR. I am sure someone is studying that que ... Read more
Marie Myers Good question ;I don’t know if you can have TAVR in a TAVR. I am sure someone is studying that question right now, though.
The TAVR was completed Tuesday, June 23, 2020 and I came home yesterday. I actually felt better yesterday. Today I've had periods of feeling lightheaded again ...Read more
The TAVR was completed Tuesday, June 23, 2020 and I came home yesterday. I actually felt better yesterday. Today I've had periods of feeling lightheaded again and my BP has been fluctuating all day. Started out this morning at 5:20 at 127/93 80BPM, went down to 96/75 82BPM at 8:20am, 98/50 51BPM at 9:07am, back up to 102/66 with 71BPM at 10:21am and 101-68 with 89BPM at 12:04pm. I'm really not that concerned because I was told by 2 different cardiac surgeons that it takes time for my heart to adjust to the new valve. Just kinda odd...
Hello Mike, so glad you got your TAVR done and are home now. You have been in my prayers and glad you ... Read more
Hello Mike, so glad you got your TAVR done and are home now. You have been in my prayers and glad you are on this side of recovery. You are a brave man. I have heard the same thing about BP. Hang in there and be patient with yourself. God bless you
Adam Pick Happy homecoming Mike. I know this has been quite the journey for you! Please take it easy!!!
Mike Czaplewski Thank you Ana and Adam. It is SO wonderful to be home. No real pain, just mild discomfort / ache in m ... Read more
Mike Czaplewski Thank you Ana and Adam. It is SO wonderful to be home. No real pain, just mild discomfort / ache in my right groin where the TAVR was put through. Tylenol takes care of that.
Tracy Fallu Yeah, you’re home. Rest up and take good care of yourself.
Had a curious thought yesterday....after I have my TAVR for my aortic valve on 6-23-20 I will have TWO AORTIC VALVES!!! Statistically, I wonder how many people ...Read more
Had a curious thought yesterday....after I have my TAVR for my aortic valve on 6-23-20 I will have TWO AORTIC VALVES!!! Statistically, I wonder how many people have 2 of the same valve in their bodies :)
Marie Myers I don’t know, but I think you have a shot at the newest category in The Guinness Book of Records... ... Read more
Marie Myers I don’t know, but I think you have a shot at the newest category in The Guinness Book of Records...
Pat Bluemel I talked to my cardio about this and apparently it's a thing. I told her it sounds like nesting dolls ... Read more
Pat Bluemel I talked to my cardio about this and apparently it's a thing. I told her it sounds like nesting dolls of Aortic valves!
Pat Bluemel Also, Mike, I've taken time to catch up on your story and am following. I'm sorry you are going throu ... Read more
Pat Bluemel Also, Mike, I've taken time to catch up on your story and am following. I'm sorry you are going through this. I'm familiar with all your feelings as I lasted to 5 years, was banking on 12 as a target. Glad you are getting TAVR and sending good energy.
Kim Owen Prayers on your upcoming surgery. What is TAVR?
Nancy Chavez That’s great news! Can’t wait to hear all about it. You will do great. Wishing you all the best. ... Read more
Nancy Chavez That’s great news! Can’t wait to hear all about it. You will do great. Wishing you all the best.
Rose Madura My aunt had a TAVR about 5 years ago to replace an already replaced valve. Her first one lasted a go ... Read more
Rose Madura My aunt had a TAVR about 5 years ago to replace an already replaced valve. Her first one lasted a good long time. She was the first in Butler County, Ohio to have a TAVR. So you aren't the only one to have two tissue valves. You are not alone! She is 80 now and is doing well.
Adam Pick Great question!!! Valve in Valve procedures are becoming much more common these days!!!
Mike Czaplewski Thank you everyone :) The TAVR is scheduled for tomorrow, Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at about 8am CDT. H ... Read more
Mike Czaplewski Thank you everyone :) The TAVR is scheduled for tomorrow, Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at about 8am CDT. Have to be there at 6am. See you on the other side...
Herb Greenberg that's great. where did you decide to have it?
Mike Czaplewski Herb - Same hospital I had my first aortic valve surgery = Froedtert in Milwaukee. They have some kin ... Read more
Mike Czaplewski Herb - Same hospital I had my first aortic valve surgery = Froedtert in Milwaukee. They have some kind of connection with Cleveland Clinic. Not sure how they define it.
Civita Fahey just curious, did they say how long they think this valve will last? How would another valve be done ... Read more
Civita Fahey just curious, did they say how long they think this valve will last? How would another valve be done when this fails, hopefully not for a long time.. would that have to be open?
What does a TEE show compared to a cardiac catheterization and a CT (TAVR)? Why have all three? What does one show that the others don't?
Marie Myers I had all 3 as part of my workup prior to surgery. The more the docs know about your anatomy, the bet ... Read more
Marie Myers I had all 3 as part of my workup prior to surgery. The more the docs know about your anatomy, the better they may know what to do and how to do it..
Barbara Wood I was told the tee can look behind your heart...they use it before a cardioversion to check for blood ... Read more
Barbara Wood I was told the tee can look behind your heart...they use it before a cardioversion to check for blood clots if you are not taking a blood thinner.
The bovine aortic valve I had installed on 1-9-17 is failing already. Found this out 2 months ago and I will, hopefully, be getting a TAVR valve-in-valve in ...Read more
The bovine aortic valve I had installed on 1-9-17 is failing already. Found this out 2 months ago and I will, hopefully, be getting a TAVR valve-in-valve in a couple of weeks....good Lord willin' and the creeks don't rise. My Ejection Fraction is 25%. During the past 2 months I have been having LOTS of cramps all over my body. Because a low EF can cause hypoxia will that cause more cramping? I get cramps in my; toes, tops of my ankles, my neck, my back, my groin, the back of my thigh, along both sides of my shin, my entire knee, and my hands. Anyone have any light to shine on this? Thanks.
Paola Gonnet Mike Go to Cleveland Clinic ... my surgery was there and based on my experience I fully recommend CC ... Read more
Paola Gonnet Mike Go to Cleveland Clinic ... my surgery was there and based on my experience I fully recommend CC
Marie Myers Don’t know if the two are related.Keeping well hydrated sometimes helps me against cramps.
That is ... Read more
Marie Myers Don’t know if the two are related.Keeping well hydrated sometimes helps me against cramps.
That is great news about getting TAVR instead of another open procedure! Keep us posted.
Mike Czaplewski Marie Myers - I know keeping hydrated helps but the docs prescribed a diuretic for me because of my h ... Read more
Mike Czaplewski Marie Myers - I know keeping hydrated helps but the docs prescribed a diuretic for me because of my heart issues. Damned if you do and damned if you don't ;)
Adam Pick Sorry Mike. I don't have any specific words of wisdom for you. Hopefully the TAVR VIV will help. Tho ... Read more
Adam Pick Sorry Mike. I don't have any specific words of wisdom for you. Hopefully the TAVR VIV will help. Thoughts and prayers are with you!
FINALLY got the results from the CT (TAVR) I had done on May 15th. All cleared for an aortic valve-in-valve but that will also depend on the Cardiac Catheterization ...Read more
FINALLY got the results from the CT (TAVR) I had done on May 15th. All cleared for an aortic valve-in-valve but that will also depend on the Cardiac Catheterization I will have done next week Thursday, June 4th. If that's okay they will review my case the following Wednesday, June 10th and schedule the TAVR after that. They do the TAVRs on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Marie Myers Glad you got the CT result. Stay positive!
I had a CT (TAVR) done on May 15th. I was told the results would take 2 business days and I STILL have not heard anything from anyone! Should I be concerned? ...Read more
I had a CT (TAVR) done on May 15th. I was told the results would take 2 business days and I STILL have not heard anything from anyone! Should I be concerned?
Herb Greenberg Yes - I would be concerned that you're at the right hospital/doctor. You need to be a squeaky wheel, ... Read more
Herb Greenberg Yes - I would be concerned that you're at the right hospital/doctor. You need to be a squeaky wheel, but on something like this you shouldn't have to.
Because I am facing another aortic valve replacement I've been searching Al Gore's internet (THANKS AL!) and found that there is a term "reoperation" and I ...Read more
Because I am facing another aortic valve replacement I've been searching Al Gore's internet (THANKS AL!) and found that there is a term "reoperation" and I should be looking for a surgeon who is experienced in replacing replacement valves. Seems there are many issues with reoperation that were not factors in the first valve replacement. Any input on this? Thanks.
Herb Greenberg I'm biased but I would check with Cleveland; there is nothing they haven't seen or someone doesn't sp ... Read more
Herb Greenberg I'm biased but I would check with Cleveland; there is nothing they haven't seen or someone doesn't specialize in. My surgeon was Lars Svensson, who runs the Heart/Vascular institute and is all things aorta. He is brilliant. Other folks here have had very good luck with Mayo. Whatever you do you might consider a reference hospital for this kind of thing. Good luck.
Marie Myers Yes, reoperations can be a little trickier than first time surgeries. This is in part due to scar tis ... Read more
Marie Myers Yes, reoperations can be a little trickier than first time surgeries. This is in part due to scar tissue that has formed from the first surgery. Where did you have your first surgery done?
Mike Czaplewski Froedtert Hospital, Milwaukee, Wi
https://www.froedtert.com/locations/hospital/froedtert-hospital
87th Street Road Construction: 87th Street has shifted to a temporary road between Watertown Plank Road and Connell Avenue. View a PDF of the route. Please be aware that back-ups may occur and watch for flaggers directing traffic in the event a lane is temporarily closed.
Marie Myers Did your original surgeon indicate whether the failure was possibly a product failure or a technical/ ... Read more
Marie Myers Did your original surgeon indicate whether the failure was possibly a product failure or a technical/procedural issue? Sounds like your original hospital is a large center. It is not an easy choice to make on where to go, that is for sure.
Rob Sparling Mike, my surgeon specifically mentioned to me before surgery that the vast majority of his patients a ... Read more
Rob Sparling Mike, my surgeon specifically mentioned to me before surgery that the vast majority of his patients are re-operations. Those are the kind of folks you want! I agree with Hank and suggest you go see a team that has seen it all. Hopefully you can find that!
Herb Greenberg Rob, your age is showing. Only people of a certain age call me Hank - very very common slip🥴
Barbara Wood Yes, scar tissue is the issue. Those of us who go into our first surgery with previous chest radiatio ... Read more
Barbara Wood Yes, scar tissue is the issue. Those of us who go into our first surgery with previous chest radiation are considered as second surgery patients for this reason. My surgeon was not a repeat surgery specialist, but he was nonplussed about the scar tissue issue & the surgery went great. Look for a very experienced surgeon - I once read- pick a young cardiologist & an old surgeon- I kind of agree with that :). So sorry you are facing a redo, but very best wishes!
Rob Sparling Herb! Wow. What was I thinking? My Detroit Tiger roots are on full display! I’ll call you “Slu ... Read more
Rob Sparling Herb! Wow. What was I thinking? My Detroit Tiger roots are on full display! I’ll call you “Slugger” from now on! LOL. 😂
Herb Greenberg That's right - you're from up that way. Makes perfect sense.
Carlos Banuelos Hi Mike, sorry to hear that you need a redo. I agree with the above advice that you should find an e ... Read more
Carlos Banuelos Hi Mike, sorry to hear that you need a redo. I agree with the above advice that you should find an experienced surgeon who does more complex operations. Like Herb/Hank, I am partial to Cleveland Clinic. I travelled from SD to have my aortic valve replaced. It wasn’t a redo but I didn’t have heart surgery (asd repair) when I was 5 so there was scar tissue for the surgeon to deal with. My surgeon was Doug Johnston. Very meticulous and he’s the guy lecturing other surgeons about performing valve surgery. That said, all the surgeons at Cleveland Clinic are excellent. Good luck. Keep us updated.
Joe Tarango Mike, I'm sorry to hear you need a reop but you will do well. When I went to Cleveland Clinic for my ... Read more
Joe Tarango Mike, I'm sorry to hear you need a reop but you will do well. When I went to Cleveland Clinic for my surgery there was a gentleman I met that was on his third operation and he was doing great. Best wishes in your research to find the right place.
Yesterday I finally had the TEE I had been waiting a month for. The results were not good. The bovine aortic valve I had put in on 1-9-17 is a leaker. When ...Read more
Yesterday I finally had the TEE I had been waiting a month for. The results were not good. The bovine aortic valve I had put in on 1-9-17 is a leaker. When I was in the hosptial on 3-31-20, 4-1 and 4-2, the Echo showed my ejection fraction to be 33%. Yesterday's TEE showed I am now down to 25%. My heart is enlarged and another OHS is in the near future. I'm sure I won't hear anything from my cardiologist until Monday, 5-11-20 at the soonest. I dread having to suffer through another OHS and rehab. I was told that a TAVR is not an option for me because I have aortic regurgitation and TAVRs are not used for that. They are used for aortic stenosis.
Shannon Gray I’m so sorry. Not the news you want to hear. Prayers for strength and peace as you face this roller ... Read more
Shannon Gray I’m so sorry. Not the news you want to hear. Prayers for strength and peace as you face this roller coaster.
Herb Greenberg Bummer. Good luck with it. My suggestion is that, if possible, get a second opinion regarding your op ... Read more
Herb Greenberg Bummer. Good luck with it. My suggestion is that, if possible, get a second opinion regarding your options - even if virtual - so you have full confidence in whichever route you wind up going.
Marie Myers So sorry to hear that report. I believe there are some big centers where TAVR is being studied for ao ... Read more
Marie Myers So sorry to hear that report. I believe there are some big centers where TAVR is being studied for aortic regurgitation. Maybe your cardiologist can let you know what is possible. Wishing you peace during your journey.
Rose Madura Hi Mike. This is so sad and horrible for you. I'm so sorry you have to go through this. My thoughts ... Read more
Rose Madura Hi Mike. This is so sad and horrible for you. I'm so sorry you have to go through this. My thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless you.
Hello Mike you have been in my prayers ever day. Don’t be scare and stay strong and keep your hopes ... Read more
Hello Mike you have been in my prayers ever day. Don’t be scare and stay strong and keep your hopes up for your next procedure. As Jim O. stated, he went thru a second surgery just a few days after the first valve failed and he is recovering and taking it one day at a time. You will be fine and and recovering soon. Hang in there. I will continue to pray for you. God bless you
Had an ER heart incident last week, ended up staying in the hospital for 2 nights. I was told that the bovine aortic valve that I was given in January of 2017 ...Read more
Had an ER heart incident last week, ended up staying in the hospital for 2 nights. I was told that the bovine aortic valve that I was given in January of 2017 is failing! When I was on the consultation with the surgeon I was told they last from 10-15 years and it's only been 3!!! How can this be?! Next step is a TEE and that will determine the condition of the valve and if I need another valve. TVAR is a possibility but it could also be another open heart surgery. I was hoping that the combination of the 10-15 year projection with the TVAR as my "ace in the hole" for the next time I could see my grandsons grow up; ages 4, 2 and 5 months. Now I'm not so sure...... I would truly appreciate any, and all, words of wisdom, insight and hope anyone (especially heart surgeons) have to share regarding this devastating news. Thanks.
Shannon Gray I am so sorry. We tend to focus on getting through our initial surgery and that takes time... and the ... Read more
Shannon Gray I am so sorry. We tend to focus on getting through our initial surgery and that takes time... and then to possibly face another so soon... too hard. Thinking of you and pray for answers very soon.
Marie Myers I am sorry to hear that news also. Unfortunately, it is not “written in stone” that these valves ... Read more
Marie Myers I am sorry to hear that news also. Unfortunately, it is not “written in stone” that these valves will last 10-15 yrs. I, too, would be devastated at that news, having gotten a tissue valve in 2017 . There are many factors that can cause early failure, and I do feel a bit anxious at my routine cardiology/internist visits. I am hoping everything sounds ok on checkups. Just take one step at a time, and see what the TEE shows. Please keep us posted!
Herb Greenberg That is a huge bummer. Mike, can you share which brand/model - and any indication of why it might be ... Read more
Herb Greenberg That is a huge bummer. Mike, can you share which brand/model - and any indication of why it might be failing?
Susan Gauff Praying that they can fix this with TAVR as recovery time is so much easier.
Deepak Khanka Mike, I am having a redo. I am 41 yrs. but I was told a OHS is the only way TAVR has its risk involvi ... Read more
Deepak Khanka Mike, I am having a redo. I am 41 yrs. but I was told a OHS is the only way TAVR has its risk involving infection. Sorry to hear about your case. Be strong and carry on
Susan Lynn Mike - This is certainly concerning news. Wait to see what the TEE reveals and stay positive if you ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - This is certainly concerning news. Wait to see what the TEE reveals and stay positive if you can. You're a heart warrior and, while none of us would want to go through this in 3 years, you did it once and, if you have to, you will do it again. You will find the strength and perseverance. You already have the cheering squad right here! Please keep us posted. ❤
Rose Madura I can't imagine how you must feel. Prayers with you. Please keep us posted. I too received a bovin ... Read more
Rose Madura I can't imagine how you must feel. Prayers with you. Please keep us posted. I too received a bovine valve in 2017!
Mike Czaplewski The aortic valve that was installed in 2017 was a St. Jude Trifecta bioprosthetic valve. If that's of ... Read more
Mike Czaplewski The aortic valve that was installed in 2017 was a St. Jude Trifecta bioprosthetic valve. If that's of any value to any of you. Thank you for your prayers and words of encouragement. Blessings to you all.
So, so, so, so sorry to hear of your valve failure. This is an unfortunate reality of heart valve surgery. Sometimes, the valve replacements - tissue and mechanical valves - fail.
That said, there is good news here. (I know that may be heard to hear. But, it's true.)
First, you and your team caught it. Second, select valve re-operations are much easier today thanks to certain valve-in-valve technologies like TAVR.
That said, I want to share a couple patient stories that might help inspire you about the reality of seeing your grandsons grow up.
I hope that helps. If you need anything, please let me know. We're here for you! Adam
Adam Pick Mike, Here is the inspirational story of James McBride who had three heart surgeries including a "Val ... Read more
https://www.Heart-Valve-Surgery.com - See how a new "Valve-In-Valve" procedure helped Jesse McBride, a 3-time heart surgery patient, get back to enjoying his...
Adam Pick And here's the story of Paul Powers, who had 3 heart valve procedures including a VIV in the mitral p ... Read more
http://www.Heart-Valve-Surgery.com - See the inspirational story of Paul Powers, a heart valve patient, who needed a transcatheter mitral "Valve-In-Valve" pr...
Hi Mike, sorry you are going through this. I can’t imagine how you must be feeling. I had the Benta ... Read more
Hi Mike, sorry you are going through this. I can’t imagine how you must be feeling. I had the Bentall procedure in November 2019. Never thought about the replacement valve failing until I heard from some of our warriors who are having this happen to them. I will pray for you Mike. Hope you get all your results soon and whatever you will need to do you will be ok and here for not only your grandchildren but your whole family. What symptoms did you feel before finding out the valve failed?
Stay positive and God bless you
Ellen Palmer Hi Mike, Sorry to hear that your valve is failing. I know how discouraging that is. I had my mitral ... Read more
Ellen Palmer Hi Mike, Sorry to hear that your valve is failing. I know how discouraging that is. I had my mitral valve replaced in Dec of 2016 with a tissue valve. In November 2018 (just short of two years) I found out that my replacement valve was also failing. They could not find any reason for the failure. After my TEE it was determined that the regurgitation was moderate/severe and therefore they recommended that I wait for it to get to severe before replacing it. I get an echo every 6 months to check on it and fortunately it has not progressed at all during the year since. I hope that all goes well with your TEE.
Mike Czaplewski Ana Brusso One of the strangest symptoms I was having was when I would bend forward and after about ... Read more
Mike Czaplewski Ana Brusso One of the strangest symptoms I was having was when I would bend forward and after about 10-15 seconds I could feel all the blood rushing to my head and face. I stood up in front of a mirror and my face was all red. Most significant symptoms were feeling out of breath easily, a bit light headed and my heart just POUNDING in my chest and head. Got so bad that I couldn't sleep lying down in bed. Had to try to sleep sitting up in a recliner and every time I would just start to doze off I was startled awake again feeling like I wasn't getting enough oxygen. I've had a total of 18 surgeries in my life and endured LOTS of pre and post surgery pain but the worst feeling I have ever had was not being able to BREATH! I know that I made it through open heart surgery before and I can do it again but that doesn't mean I want to ;)
Mike Czaplewski Ellen Palmer Sorry to hear about your personal challenges also. I'm sure it's difficult never knowing ... Read more
Mike Czaplewski Ellen Palmer Sorry to hear about your personal challenges also. I'm sure it's difficult never knowing when and echo will show that you need your second surgery. Have you given any consideration to what kind of valve you will get, if you need another one?
Rita Savelis I'm so sorry that you have to go through this Mike. It's terrible to fall into the category of : this ... Read more
Rita Savelis I'm so sorry that you have to go through this Mike. It's terrible to fall into the category of : this rarely happens. Because it does. Valve longevity numbers are statistics and one can be in the low end or the high end. It's not always possible to know why things happen. You've been through 18 surgeries, so you certainly didn't deserve this. But I hope that your next valve will do the trick. Take care.
Jennifer Winslow I’m so sorry to hear this. I pray it’s not as bad as they think. I too had a bovine put in now ... Read more
Jennifer Winslow I’m so sorry to hear this. I pray it’s not as bad as they think. I too had a bovine put in now in hopes of it lasting and having TAVR when it needs to be replaced.
Adam Pick Dr. Gerdisch sent me this for Mike. I hope it helps Mike and all the patients in our community with ... Read more
This is wonderful and a bit unexpected! Yesterday, I featured Mike Czaplewski's post in our email newsletter. As you will see below, Mike is struggling wit
Chris Calhoun Mike you are mentally tough enough to do this as you have already proven - I am praying this goes smo ... Read more
Chris Calhoun Mike you are mentally tough enough to do this as you have already proven - I am praying this goes smoothly for you!!!!!!
Mike Czaplewski Ever since the incident described above I've been getting aura, blind spots and headaches every day i ... Read more
Mike Czaplewski Ever since the incident described above I've been getting aura, blind spots and headaches every day including the 2 nights I was in the hospital. One day I had 3 in a row. Each time it takes about 45 minutes for the blind spot to go away and that morning I had one after another, after another, after another. Ended up going back to bed and slept for 3 hours even though I had gotten a good night's sleep the night before. I contacted my cardiologist and he said these issues are not related to my current heart issue and to contact my doctor. I contacted him and have not heard back. Anyone else experiencing these problems before or after your heart surgery? Thanks :)
Had my aortic valve replaced January 9, 2017 and for the most part recovery has been, what I've been told, "normal." My issue now is pain in my sternum (mostly ...Read more
Had my aortic valve replaced January 9, 2017 and for the most part recovery has been, what I've been told, "normal." My issue now is pain in my sternum (mostly on my right side just below the collar bone). Latest episode was this morning at 1:50am when I was woken up because of the pain. I got up and sat on the recliner with the hot pad on it to help but that didn't work. After an hour of trying to deal with it, and praying that the pain would stop on it's own, I gave up and took a 10MG oxycodone. Now, 9 hours and 3 pain pills later it is better but still hurts. It's an aching pain accentuated by a stabbing pain. When I woke up the pain would have been rated at an 8, now it's a 3 except when I press on the area (and NOT very hard) it's a 6. Because the pain has been an issue since the surgery (almost 1 year and 9 months later) I have mentioned it to my cardiologist and general practitioner at my regular check-ups and each time I have been told that it takes time. Okay....but it's hurting MORE now than it did last year. Doesn't seem "normal" to me. Anyone have any insights they would like to share? Thanks.
Catie B Mike, no. That doesn't sound normal at all. I'm so sorry you're suffering like this. It sounds like t ... Read more
Catie B Mike, no. That doesn't sound normal at all. I'm so sorry you're suffering like this. It sounds like this needs to be evaluated. Rarely, people need to have sternal wires removed and rarely the sternum doesn't heal properly. Seems like any time they move parts around like in major surgery, there's a small risk that something will continue to be a problem. I've had some trouble with the pacing wires they didn't remove--but nothing like the recurrent pain you're describing. Hope someone will be able to thoroughly check you out, identify what's going on and treat you. Was your surgeon local, so you could return to them as a start?
Mike Czaplewski Yes, the surgeon is about 30 minutes away. Thanks.
Had my aortic valve replaced January of 2017 and still get pains in my sternum periodically. I have told my cardiologist about this and his response is "crickets" ...Read more
Had my aortic valve replaced January of 2017 and still get pains in my sternum periodically. I have told my cardiologist about this and his response is "crickets" ... silence...no comment at all. It's not all the time...about once every 2 weeks and the aching pain lasts for about 3-4 hours. Anyone else experience this also? Comments? Suggestions? Thanks :)
D. Ryan Lafferty I always call that my "yucky feeling" in my sternum and it will dissipate over time. I still get it t ... Read more
D. Ryan Lafferty I always call that my "yucky feeling" in my sternum and it will dissipate over time. I still get it three years out, but for much shorter periods with duller aching. You have to keep in mind that they cauterized (burned the muscle tissue) down to the bone and then cut through the most central point of your torso and then tied it all back together with wire. I hope the pain goes away for you soon. It's a terrible feeling.
Mike Czaplewski Thank you for the comment....I didn't know all the details but now I do :P What do they use to burn ... Read more
Mike Czaplewski Thank you for the comment....I didn't know all the details but now I do :P What do they use to burn the muscle tissue?!
Rose Madura Yes, I have sternum pain still from time to time. Also, where the heart/lung machine was hooked up, ... Read more
Rose Madura Yes, I have sternum pain still from time to time. Also, where the heart/lung machine was hooked up, I have a bad scar that gave me a lot of trouble. but it seems to get better for me in time. My surgery way in May of 2017.
Rita Savelis I don't describe it as pain, but definitely a pulling, a tightness, a weird feeling. This came and we ... Read more
Rita Savelis I don't describe it as pain, but definitely a pulling, a tightness, a weird feeling. This came and went during the first 3 years after OHS, and now happens less often. This is an aftereffect of OHS....there are many and often there is not much to do except be aware of them.... which is why doctors say "crickets". To him, you are fine.
Anyone else have numerous (sometimes every day) migraine headaches with auras after open heart surgery? I had my aortic valve replaced last year on 1-9-17 and ...Read more
Anyone else have numerous (sometimes every day) migraine headaches with auras after open heart surgery? I had my aortic valve replaced last year on 1-9-17 and from the moment I opened my eyes, waking from the sedation, I have had them. I've mentioned it to my cardiologist and general practioner and get no help / feedback...just blank stares.
Willie Radl Mike did you have them prior to surgery? I've had migraines in the past but haven't had any issues ye ... Read more
Willie Radl Mike did you have them prior to surgery? I've had migraines in the past but haven't had any issues yet but I'm only 2 weeks post op.
Pam Hascall I had a mitral valve repair 1-4-17. I've always have aura migraines (maybe 3/yr), but post-surgery t ... Read more
Pam Hascall I had a mitral valve repair 1-4-17. I've always have aura migraines (maybe 3/yr), but post-surgery they increased significantly to 4-5/month. Initially I was prescribed a beta blocker, but didn't like how they made me feel, so I don't take anything. I've heard that magnesium may help. Now over a year out from surgery, they are less frequent, but still more than before surgery. Cannot find any info on why they increased, nor has anyone been able to tell me why.
Mike Czaplewski Willie Radl - Yes, I did have then but on average only 1 every 2-3 months. Now they are almost daily. ... Read more
Mike Czaplewski Willie Radl - Yes, I did have then but on average only 1 every 2-3 months. Now they are almost daily.
Mike Czaplewski Pam Hascall - Very similar to my experience. I have tried magnesium with no help.
Diane T I've had migraines for years, and aura-only migraines maybe once a year. After mitral valve repair (o ... Read more
Diane T I've had migraines for years, and aura-only migraines maybe once a year. After mitral valve repair (on 2/5/18) I got the auras frequently, and ultimately realized they occurred when I was overdoing it. When I reduced my activity and how hard I pushed myself, they went away. Haven't had one for the last 4 weeks or so. FYI, I take magnesium regularly, so for me that has nothing to do with it.
Sophia Ridley I have had many aura migraines post op. Had them checked out in case it was something worse. Triggers ... Read more
Sophia Ridley I have had many aura migraines post op. Had them checked out in case it was something worse. Triggers are hot crowded spaces (public transport) and low blood pressure so I keep hydrated. Touch wood, I was only thinking yesterday that it’s been a good few weeks now, I hope I haven’t jinxed it. One doctor suggested amber coloured sunglasses as bright sunlight can also trigger them, he got aura migraines himself but still hadn’t got a cure. Do get your iron checked as that can cause them too.
Marie Myers I had dozens of auras daily for several months post surgery. I am guessing the stress of the whole ex ... Read more
Marie Myers I had dozens of auras daily for several months post surgery. I am guessing the stress of the whole experience causes them.. Many people on this site said the same thing to me when I asked about them last year. Mine gradually decreased in frequency, and I rarely get them now.
Catie B I've had a slew of them, and my lifelong periodic migraines had quit at menopause. Heart surgery brou ... Read more
Catie B I've had a slew of them, and my lifelong periodic migraines had quit at menopause. Heart surgery brought them back in spades. Though now I sometimes I get the aura for up to 45 min. or so, but the migraine doesn't show up.
Kathleen Schroeder Yes. I had mitral valve replacement 10 years ago, and my migraine-with-aura has increased significan ... Read more
Kathleen Schroeder Yes. I had mitral valve replacement 10 years ago, and my migraine-with-aura has increased significantly. Immediately post-surgery, it happened every day. I began having just the aura in my 30s, but after surgery in my 50s, the headache began to accompany the aura more often. And yes, the doctors just stare at you and shrug.
Before I have the surgery I have to have a cardiac catheterization done to see if there are any other issues they would have to fix at the same time.
I will ...Read more
Before I have the surgery I have to have a cardiac catheterization done to see if there are any other issues they would have to fix at the same time.
I will have that done at Froedtert Hospital and the Medical College of Wisconsin on 12-22-16 at 7:30am. It takes 1-1.5 hours and I will have to stay there for, just for observation, for 2 hours afterward if the catheter goes in through my wrist, 4 hours if it goes in my groin (OUCH!!). The doctor will make that decision when I am there, depending on which one he feels would be best. I also have to have a blood test done before that.
I was told that if it's only the aortic valve it is the simpliest heart operation with the quickest recovery time. It would be about a 3 hour surgery and there would be a smaller incision (4") in my sternum - from the top down. I would be in ICU for at least 1 day and in the hospital a total of 3-5 days. If the cardiac cath shows more problems than we are aware of now the incision would be the entire length of my sternum, the operation would take about twice as long and I would be in the hospital about a week. Based on what I need done and my physical condition my chance of dying from the operation is .8%.
As of now my heart is only 40% efficient because of the leaking aortic valve. The longer I wait the more inefficient and damaged and weaker my heart will become.
My surgeon is out of town from 12-13 to 12-20 and I'm sure he has certain days of the week for operations, plus having to have the cardiac cath done on 12-22, most likely I won't have the surgery until early 2017.
Stephen Phayre The catheterization in the groin is absolutely fine. I had no pain whatsoever and it was a very spee ... Read more
Stephen Phayre The catheterization in the groin is absolutely fine. I had no pain whatsoever and it was a very speedy procedure. Had to stay flat on my back after (for about 90 minutes) and then we were free to go.
Looking for info on aortic valve replacment. I have a severe leaker with a shrinking heart. Appointment with surgeon this Wednesday 12-7-16.
Ray Farmer You have come to the right place. The videos Adam does and the experience from other people is inval ... Read more
Ray Farmer You have come to the right place. The videos Adam does and the experience from other people is invaluable. I have severe aortic stenosis and regurgitation - it does seem to be very common but we are lucky because it is treatable. My operation is scheduled for Friday 9th Dec. I met my cardiologist for the first time on October 12th. If you have breathing difficulties they probably will want to act sooner than later. I have no outward symptoms other than breathlessness but the tests proved the reality.
Mike Czaplewski Did you get more than 1 opinion? Interview other cardiologists? I first found out about my heart issu ... Read more
Mike Czaplewski Did you get more than 1 opinion? Interview other cardiologists? I first found out about my heart issue 5 years ago and had gotten an echocardiogram every 12-18 months and for all those years it was okay...no change until the last one last week. Are you restictedin any way now? I live in Wisconsin and we got about 4" and I was going to shovel it but my wife told me I shouldn't. I would have shoveled it at any other time but it's just that I know about the leaker now, where before I didn't know it had gotten bad.
Civita Fahey hi Mike, I got 3 opinions on my bicuspid valve. I live in the Boston area and we do have many hospita ... Read more
Civita Fahey hi Mike, I got 3 opinions on my bicuspid valve. I live in the Boston area and we do have many hospitals to go to. I found out about 4 years ago I mild-moderate aortic stenosis, but had no symptoms. I still am pretty asymptomatic, sometimes a bit winded going up stairs, No leaking in the valve but, I was told by all three that as soon as I started getting any type of symptoms that it would be time, though no rush.. I'm planning on early spring to get away from our horrible winters too.. it was good to hear that all three had the same thing to say, .. If you could get at least two it would be a good idea in my opinion. sometimes its the doctor we need to "click" with. I found my third one was the one that I most liked and felt comfortable with.. you need to be comfortable with the person who will do your surgery. I wasn't restricted from any exercise, they said, don't do anything you haven't done, and you get winded, dizzy or chest pains, then obviously don't do it.. but, have been ok with what I have been doing so, I'll continue as long as I can. Best of luck.
Mike Czaplewski Thanks, Civita. The doctor I will be seeing tomorrow is highly rated as one of the top doctors in our ... Read more
Mike Czaplewski Thanks, Civita. The doctor I will be seeing tomorrow is highly rated as one of the top doctors in our area for the past 2 years. My primary physician knows him and recommends him and has other patients who have had heart surgery done by him and they are all doing well. Not sure how soon he will say I need to have surgery. I don't have the typical symptoms except the fatigue but I just thought that was from not getting enough sleep. I've been reading as much as I can about the surgery and I'm not liking what I'm reading. All the tubes and IV's they stick into you.....nasty, nasty, nasty.
Civita Fahey yeah, that's what I hear, but, looks like from pictures of our friends here, that they take those out ... Read more
Civita Fahey yeah, that's what I hear, but, looks like from pictures of our friends here, that they take those out as soon as they can. Not something I want my family to see .. but, it is what it is.. we at least can say this is fixable..( I look at it as it could be worse) I think I'm ok now with the surgery, haven't had many except two C-sections, so I don't know how I will react.. Never been a fan of surgery but if its necessary to survive, its necessary. I pray that we all do well and make a speedy recovery.. Patience is what we need, not my best virtue unfortunately, so, something I need to start learning.. please keep us posted. As long as you are comfortable with the physician its all that matters. PS; Go Pack (my second favorite NFL team) :-)
Amy Steele Mike - It sounds like you're doing all the right things. Like Ray said, this site is great and there ... Read more
Amy Steele Mike - It sounds like you're doing all the right things. Like Ray said, this site is great and there are so many here who can answer even the most mundane questions. The doctors know all about how to take care of us with our various conditions, but they don't know about the experience. They can't relate... That's where this site is invaluable. I'm 9 weeks post-op and the people here were so great about answering my questions and supporting me in my pre-surgery emotional roller coaster. It's a very scary thing and I found it very helpful to know that there are so many who have gone through the same things. Family and friends are supportive, but they can't understand fully what you're going through. Yes, those tubes, IV's, finger sticks (for blood sugar), and shots are nasty, but they try to make you as comfortable as they can. I found that the anticipation was much worse than the actual experience. I just take things as they come... and the pain meds helped a lot too... Don't hesitate to ask lots of questions.
I am from: West Bend
Adam Pick reacted to this
Herb Greenberg, Rose Madura, Shannon Gray and 1 other reacted to this
