Paul's Journal

TEE completed and I must have thick bones, etc. The procedure confirmed both valves are affected but aorta is still moderate and instead of severe regurgitation, the mitral is mild. No need for surgery this time but monitoring will continue. Every now and then the answer is "yes".

Just had my latest Echo and the AI appears to have gone from moderate to severe and a new twist, the Mitral is now leaking. It maybe be time for another TEE since the murmur is faint compared to what the Echo sees. Also maybe time for a surgical consult. Cardiologist will go with my choice. After first researching this site when begun by Adam I was debating between Cleveland Clinic--3 surgeons--and NY Langone's Dr. Galloway. Also may consider Columbia Pres in NYC. If anyone has any experiences with the NY surgeons I would appreciate any input. And I thought I might be finished after my 17th surgery in June!

It has been 3 years since my AI diagnosis. My original cardiologist said I would need the valve replaced within 2 years. I have a new cardiologist who is not as pessimistic. I am checked every 6 months with echos every year. The valve & my heart have not gotten worse and has handled thyroid cancer surgery and 2 rounds of Radioactive Iodine without missing a beat. My hope is to stay in "The Middle" for many years to come.

Adam, thank you for your research and most of all your inspiration. After 17 surgeries I have learned to research as much as I can-as a layman-before any surgery. Your book was one of the first items I found when I received the news that surgery might be necessary. Everything a heart surgery candidate would want or need to know is in one source. After 6 months of checking and rechecking I have decided on my choices of facilities (2) and surgeons (4). Now I have been able to put aside my concerns knowing that when the time comes I will be ready and won't have to start from the beginning.