Steve Reimann - Heart Valve Journal

My Journal

1820 days ago

Hi, I had my aortic valve replaced via mini thoracotomy (through the rib cage) on Dec 11, 2018. I found out two days ago that presumably as a result of the ...Read more

Hi, I had my aortic valve replaced via mini thoracotomy (through the rib cage) on Dec 11, 2018. I found out two days ago that presumably as a result of the surgery, I have an elevated right diaphragm. Is anyone familiar with this complication? I understand it might go away, or it might not. I would appreciate any feedback. Thank you all. Steve Reimann

Susan Lynn I had a mini thoracotomy but I haven't heard of this complication. I believe that the phrenic nerve ... Read more

Susan Lynn I had a mini thoracotomy but I haven't heard of this complication. I believe that the phrenic nerve is deadened during this surgery and it does take awhile for the nerves to regenerate. I had a feeling of pins and needles for more than a year on my right side. I'm hoping that your diaphragm function will improve over time. Please keep us posted, Steve.

Steve Farthing It seemed from my research that most docs who perform the mini thoracotomy use 'direct vision' instea ... Read more

Steve Farthing It seemed from my research that most docs who perform the mini thoracotomy use 'direct vision' instead of an endoscope to see what they are doing. Using direct vision requires spreading the ribs in order to see and who knows what other anatomical gyrations may be needed for a specific person's confirmation. And of course the right lung is deflated to make more room for the instruments. Your surgeon might answer the specific question you raised.

Steve Reimann Thanks Susan and Steve F,
I also have the "pins and needles" feeling, especially where one of my ribs ... Read more

Steve Reimann Thanks Susan and Steve F,
I also have the "pins and needles" feeling, especially where one of my ribs that was spread (you got that one right Steve) is still protruding a bit. My surgeon was non committal and said it may improve over time or it may not. The magic number seems to be 6 months.....I've got two to go.
Steve Reimann