Three years ago I had a porcine mitral valve put in via minimally invasive OHS. I've had a lot of complications. First was a blood clot in the valve from which ...Read more
Three years ago I had a porcine mitral valve put in via minimally invasive OHS. I've had a lot of complications. First was a blood clot in the valve from which we discovered I have antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) one year after the initial surgery. I'll be on coumadin for life regardless of what I do. Now I have A-Fib and A-Flutter when laying down--not all the time; there is no pattern. We are considering a few options.
1. Ablation and do nothing with the valve. 2. Replace the valve with a mechanical valve since I am already on blood thinners and doing a maze procedure.
Has anyone ever encountered something like this? I'm only asking for your experiences. I have a great team of doctors that I plan to ask lots of questions to before deciding what to do.
Jill Porter I'm sure your doctors will tell you the best course of action. If your porcine mitral valve is functi ... Read more
Jill Porter I'm sure your doctors will tell you the best course of action. If your porcine mitral valve is functioning well I'm not sure why they want to replace it with a mechanical valve. I have had an ablation and separately OHS for a mitral valve repair. The ablation for me was a much easier experience but listen to what the drs tell you. They will help you get the best results. Afib can be challenging. I will say a prayer for you.
Rose Madura Hi Trish, a second opinion might help with your decision..I recommend it.
Robert Miller There are so many questions (for me). Why did you have a mitral valve replacement? Why is a mechanica ... Read more
Robert Miller There are so many questions (for me). Why did you have a mitral valve replacement? Why is a mechanical valve an option at this point? Because of your A-Fib/Flutter? Even after a maze procedure, you might still have a-fib but hopefully it will have improved significantly.
A-fib can be a significant source of strokes. Did they remove your appendage during the first surgery? Probably not because it was minimal invasive. If you have an OHS then ask them about removing the appendage.
I am from: Atlanta
1. Ablation and do nothing with the valve.
2. Replace the valve with a mechanical valve since I am already on blood thinners and doing a maze procedure.
Has anyone ever encountered something like this? I'm only asking for your experiences. I have a great team of doctors that I plan to ask lots of questions to before deciding what to do.
A-fib can be a significant source of strokes. Did they remove your appendage during the first surgery? Probably not because it was minimal invasive. If you have an OHS then ask them about removing the appendage.