BAV and Esophagus

[sam]

Hello, My name is Sam . I was wondering if anyone who had , or has had a Bicusbid Aortic Valve has also had any problems with their Esophagus. I have an Esophageal Ring, and Hiatal Hernia. The DR wants to place a tube down my Esophagus to try an enlarge the Ring. I am leary about this as I also have an enlarged Aorta at 4.8. And I have a dacron patch on my decending Aorta that is narrowed at both end's. I has surgery 17 years ago because I have a Coarctation Of The Aorta. The Cadi said it would be OK to have this done. I am still feeling very scared about this decision. I am not worried about my esophagus. What I am very worried about is my Aorta tearing or being desturbed because of the procedure. Sometimes I feel like their guess is as good as mine. I am going to have my Aorta replaced and also have to have my BAV replaced at some point. It is just a waiting game

 

[Nancy]

Hi Sam-

Just wanted to welcome you to the site. You'll find a wealth of info here and very warm, friendly people.

I can't help you with your issues, but I bet there will be someone who will come along to relate to what you are facing.

I hope we'll see you post often.

Best wishes

 

[hensylee]

Hey Sam - my mother used to have her esophagus stretched with some wicked looking things. She would have to go from time to time - our primary dr told us it needs to be done by a specialist who knows what he/she is doing as it can be touchy, so you will want to be sure to check this out. Don't know about the effect it could have on the aorta, tho. Good luck on this and keep us posted. God bless

 

[Arlyss]

Hi Sam,
My husband had a bicuspid aortic valve and then 11 years later ascending aortic aneurysm surgery. I am wondering if you have the opinion of an expert aortic surgeon regarding your situation. I would strongly recommend that. I'm not sure how much problem the esophagus is causing you? It is possible that an aortic surgeon would want to go in and take care of the aorta first. Here is a reference to a medical paper published August 2002 from the surgeons at the U of Toronto where it mentions the size range for surgery for those with enlarged aorta related to BAVs is 4 to 5 cms, and you are at 4.8 cm. http://circ.ahajournals.org/cgi/content/full/106/8/900?eaf
You are right to be concerned about your aorta. If you would like to get in touch with me, please do so. I would be happy to share my thoughts with you regarding where you might turn for help regarding aortic expertise.
Best wishes to you. Arlyss