AVR tomorrow

[Astro]

I'm in hospital for the workup for my AVR tomorrow. I'm 45 so I'm going mechanical. The surgeon recommends a Medtronic open pivot valve (previously called ATS). He says that it is the quietest and my search of the literature seems to confirm this. Really, I see very little difference between the modern mechanical valves - they are all good.

I caused trouble by declining to take the wheelchair to radiology for a chest X-ray. I wanted to and did walk.

All the staff seem very friendly.

I'll post about my recovery.

 

[pellicle]

You'll knock it for 6
(I have an ATS one too ... see if they still offer a free Coaguchek with every valve)

I caused trouble by declining to take the wheelchair to radiology for a chest X-ray. I wanted to and did walk.

trouble maker ;-)

 

[Paleowoman]

All the very best for a smooth and speedy recovery !

 

[Warrick]

All the best for tommorow !!

 

[Seaton]

Wishing you the very best for tomorrow and onwards.
Will be looking out for your updates post surgery.

 

[dick0236]

Wishing you all the best......now you will be a member of the "zipper" club.

 

[John-3919]

Wishing you well with your surgery and recovery! Should be back on your feet causing trouble in no time!

 

[Agian]

The best club I never wanted to join.

 

[Catie]

Speedy, strong recovery to you, Astro!

 

[tom in MO]

Godspeed.

 

[user 16827]

All the very best Astro

 

[Superbob]

Wishing you all the best Astro -- successful AVR and smooth recovery.

 

[DDT77]

Good luck to you and the team. You'll probably be the youngest one in the recovery ward, so enjoy the nursing staff .

 

[Malleus]

You're probably in surgery itself, or at least prep or waiting in the hospital, but still I want to wish you the best. You won't need good luck, just good surgeons.
You might be surprised at how quickly your initial recovery goes, and how little sternum pain you feel. I was walking the next day, climbing stairs and out of the hospital in four days. I was not an aberration. You will feel remarkably well. You may feel somewhat "chained" in recovery at home, but you can take walks outside. I hope you have some nature to enjoy.

Depression (the clinical kind) is very common following heart surgery. This is not just "feeling sad", but rather not feeling anything. Counselors can help, as can good, well-prescribed meds. Your body is dealing with an injury that it knows it couldn't survive, like being hit by a truck or ripped apart by a bear. THIS IS NORMAL for this situation, and absolutely not a sign of weakness. It's pure biochemistry, not will power. Seeking help if you need it will be regarded by folks as a sign of strength and intelligence.

I'm six months post-surgery (AVR due to bicuspid failure, plus correction of an aortic aneurysm) and am doing very well. The world is open to me now. I've got a three year old son and am looking forward to many adventures. Take care, and best wishes on a speedy recovery.

 

[ATHENS1964]

The best wishes from Athens !!!

 

[DachsieMom]

Best wishes!

 

[pellicle]

The best wishes from Athens !!!

Hey Athens ... not only is 1964 a good year, I have a hand signed CD from Athens by Vangelis!

 

[Astro]

Thanks for your best wishes. I’m now day 4. First couple days weren’t much fun with pain and nausea but are a lot better now. Walking around the ward. As soon they take off the cardiac monitor that limits me to the ward, I’ll be down to the cafe. Hopefully will go home either tomorrow or the day after.

 

[pellicle]

First couple days weren’t much fun with pain and nausea but are a lot better now.

and that first pee ...

 

[Catie]

Walking's so good! Great to hear you're on the mend and the first stormy days have passed.