Tim's Posts

I just had an On-X installed on 3/2 so I can only speak from my brief experience. I do not regret my choice at all. Like you one of the biggest factors in my decision was my wish to avoid another surgery. I am thankful I had a problem that could be fixed but the whole process was just so stressful for my family and I that I opted for "one and done". At least that is my hope. Like I said, I'm just 3 weeks into this experience but I'm glad I chose mechanical. Best of luck to you Tim. I'll be following your progress.

I have 2 mechanical valves (that are not OnX). INR management takes getting used to (as does having OHS). Your levels go up and down for awhile and it can be stressful. I have had my mechanical valves for 6 years and taking coumadin once a day and testing my blood every 2 to 4 weeks is just what I do now. I'm sorry that you have to go through this. But I wish you the best. Take care.

Hello Tim,. I'm going to go with onx valve Tim. I'm 60 years old, but in very very good shape as I know of LOL. I do have a question for you Tim. I was wondering when you had the CT Scan they did your pelvis and abdominal area too !! And, did a contrast die used ?? Thanks for your help !! Marshall

Hi Tim. I went with the On-X at 48 yrs old to hopefully avoid future replacements. The INR management has been quite easy honestly once you get it figured out. Leaving the hospital I was afraid my eating habits would make INR management a big deal and I really watched my vitamin k intake. But 2 years later I find I just eat healthy and do not concern myself with how diet impacts INR. The home testing program requires a once a week finger jab and the results are submitted to the testing service/your docs office using an mobile app. The doc only gets involved if you fall out of range , but once you figure out your diet and dosage the INR doesn't really fluctuate much.

I also eat whatever I want to (everything in moderation). I haven't changed my diet, rather I adjusted my meds to my body and my diet, rather than adjust my diet. This, on the advice of doctors. After six years of anticoagulants, I don't really need to rely on doctors for adjustments. I do them myself. After awhile you know how your body reacts. This said, the first year was stressful because I worried so much about INR going up and down. Now I know that it fluctuates, that's just how it is. No need to worry. Wishing you the best.