Advice on what to expect

[britcom61]

I'm 54 and was pretty active but slowed down a lot over the last year. My Dr noticed a heart murmur and after a long list of tests I am getting ready for replacement aortic and mitral valves. My surgeon. Dr Joe Baker, recommends on-x valves. I just had a CAT scan Friday, and should have a cardiac catheterization Wed or Thursday.
I had wilms tumor at 27 and after removing my left kidney, I had cancer return in esophagus and kidney bed, the only plan of action at the time was heavy chemo and radiation. Apparently, the radiation has caused the heart damage, hopefully there is no heavy scaring around the valves that will prevent replacement. If there is, then TAVR will be only option left for aortic valve.
If tests are all OK I will have a surgery date soon. I have read other peoples stories on this forum and have not found many that had both of these valves replaced in the same surgery.
Surgeon also tells me the Cardiac cath should show if I will need any by-passes performed.
If there is anyone with similar experiences on this site, I would love to hear from you, all the best, Lee.

 

[RTZdad]

I haven't had both valves replaced, only my aortic valve and root. I just wanted to wish you luck with your potential surgery. I hope that everything works out for you, you've been through quite a lot already. Wow. Keep us updated on what the say about surgery. Good luck Lee.

Tom

 

[britcom61]

Thanks Tom, received news today that the CAT scan with contrast showed I am a good candidate for the ON-X valve replacement. Cardio Cath will be the final step before I find out when the surgery will be.
Its been less than a month since the murmur was first discovered, really has been a whirlwind this last month. I should be in London this week and Cyprus next week but was advised by Dr to cancel any trip overseas. My wife and I are both sad after all the planning that went into the trip. Hope to make the trip next year now.

 

[RTZdad]

That's a bummer that you have to miss your trip. You'll enjoy it that much more after your recovery. Thanks for the update.