2 weeks from today

[RDDABlack]

Well I am two weeks away. Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Repair at University of Maryland. Busy making plans. Hotel for Wife and Daughter, (Hotel is 2 hrs from home) Call List for family and friends. Tidying things up at work. Getting some exercise in. Setting the house up for Post Surgery recovery - Exercise bike downstairs. Stocking up on DVD's, alinging sitters and rides to Doctors.......

Anything I am missing here?

 

[Mary]

Well I am two weeks away. Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Repair at University of Maryland. Busy making plans. Hotel for Wife and Daughter, (Hotel is 2 hrs from home) Call List for family and friends. Tidying things up at work. Getting some exercise in. Setting the house up for Post Surgery recovery - Exercise bike downstairs. Stocking up on DVD's, alinging sitters and rides to Doctors.......

Anything I am missing here?

You sound good to go!
Who will be with you at home the first few days after your repair?
You'll need someone to chauffer you to any cardio appointments for several weeks; you need the surgeon's ok before you can drive.
I've put you on the calendar for April 15, so you'll have plenty of good thoughts and wishes with you on that day.

 

[RDDABlack]

my Wife and youngest daughter (21) will be home with me, then older brother will be there to close out the week. I am sure older brother will provide plenty of encouragement. Mom has sign on to be my driver.

Thnaks for the well wishes and prayers, it all helps

 

[Susan BAV]

Welcome to the site; glad you found it. Hoping all goes well for you. Don't hesitate to ask any specific questions either; someone here will no doubt have a helpful answer or personal experience to share with you.

 

[ALCapshaw2]

Do you have a Recliner?

MANY of our members found recliners more comfortable than laying flat in bed for the first few weeks.

Did you read the post(s) on "What to take to the Hospital"?
(Probably somewhere in the Pre-Surgery Forum)

Have you discussed a Plan B option 'just in case' the Repair does NOT work? As someone who did NOT receive the valve I originally requested, I know the importance of making a second choice known! (After the fact, unfortunately).

As someone in the waiting room for eventual MV replacement, I highly recommend the On-X Valve for it's technological advancements over older Mechanical Valves (i.e. Lower potential for Clot Formation, Less Damage to Blood Cells, and built in barrier to Pannus Tissue Growth). See www.onxvalves.com and www.heartvalvechoice.com for details.

'AL Capshaw'

 

[sknydave]

Now that I think about it a recliner would be great. I made a big hill of pillows on my bed last time because lying flat was very uncomfortable for a few weeks.

 

[Jkm7]

Sounds like you have made all necessary arrangements. Good.

One thing I might mention though I'm sure you've done it but just in case. ... My surgeon hoped to be able to repair my mitral valve but in the end it was to far gone and he could not. Prior to surgery, we discussed my choice of replacement valve in the event it became necessary. Hopefully you and your surgeon are in agreement as to what valve he will use if a replacement is necessary.

 

[RDDABlack]

I actually spend more time onthe recliner than anywhere else. I seem to sleep better there than in bed. Great point on the Plan B valve. I know I selected a Mechanical, but not sure which one. I am sure my Doc will get back to me and I will advise.

Thanks for the suggestions, I am sure I will come up with many more questions.

 

[marie]

Good to have you hear. Best of luck and it seems you have it covered. Ask away if you have questions.
Earline

 

[RDDABlack]

Marie - Computers! just when you get them figured out they go and (*U_#^N
Thanks for the support!

I am confident I am in good hands (HIS), but still getting the pregame jitters.

 

[ctyguy]

Im 4+ weeks post-op and still can't sleep in a bed, recliner has been a life saver. Once the incision fully heals I will try the bed again as I am a stomach sleeper. I've tried my side a few times and it mucks up the scab over my incision.

 

[Cooker]

Sounds like you are ready!!!......Praying that you have a successful surgery and a smooth recovery??Godspeed.

 

[hensylee]

DON'T SNEEZE FOR A FEW MONTHS!~

 

[Ross]

I know I selected a Mechanical, but not sure which one. I am sure my Doc will get back to me and I will advise.

You can have a choice in brand of mechanical too, so don't settle for just whatever. Study up a touch and tell him what you want.

 

[RDDABlack]

the St. Jude mechanical valve is the only type of mechanical valve my surgeon uses.

Any feedback on the St. Jude mechanical Valve is appreciated.

 

[Cooker]

the St. Jude mechanical valve is the only type of mechanical valve my surgeon uses.

Any feedback on the St. Jude mechanical Valve is appreciated.

Mine works great ...There are others that are also very good....It was my surgeon's choice so it was mine as well.....I am sure it will serve you well all the days of your life and you will dwell in the house of the ticking forever