Called the surgeon today....

[marc_kowal]

and told him because of the risk of re-op 10-15 yrs from now I'll be going with the mechaical valve now. I inquired about the type of valve and he told me Carbomedic. After a quick search here, it seems like a lot of poeple have them without much problems. That made me feel a lot better. Gotta admit though, the nerves have set in and I get emotional when I'm with my wife and kids.

3 days and counting.....

 

[Bill B]

REMEMBER: The odds are so overhelming that you will do JUST FINE that it is not worth worrying about this. I know it is a major adventure. I know it is an unknown unless you've had this surgery before, so it is hard to have this confidence, but it's a fact. The surgery is routine now. Your surgeon has probably done hundreds if not thousands of them. Over a half million Carbomedics aortic valves have been implanted since it went into use and it offers some advantages in terms of sizing due to it supraannular sewing ring. It will all be over in 3 days. You will be amazed by how the surgery itself feels like it only took a blink of an eye.

 

[Lynlw]

Glad to hear you were able to make a decision and at peace with that part now, even tho it wasn't quite what you planned earlier.. Where are you having your surgery? As Bill said valve replacements are so common now even tho it is a huge deal to you (anyone not just you) to them it is just another day at work. Will your wife be updating us?

 

[marc_kowal]

Not sure if she'll be able to update the site, but i promise i will once I am able to use my phone!

 

[Greg a]

Marc, I too am happy to see that you are comfortable with your choices so far ........ you said

but i promise i will once I am able to use my phone

I would guess that will really be time consuming and that your hospital stay will not be long enough to call us all so posting is best .....then again a blue tooth on a walker has potential or ask the hospital staff for a hamds free unit.......they are very helpful !!!!!

I think:biggrin2:I am tired :eek2: and can't stop myself


:tongue2:​

.

 

[marc_kowal]

Heh, nice thing about phones now is that you can post on forums with them.

 

[Greg~]

Marc
My surgery is on Tuesday (8AM) so we're in the same situation. I'm also going with a mechanical valve and my surgeon recommended the Carbomedic Top Hat.
I've done a ton of research on OHS but the thing that's helped me the most is reading the numerous positive and successful first hand experiences from this site. It's really helped to curb the theater of the mind. And at this point, I feel very confident I'll do just fine and I'm sure you will too.
We will keep you and your family in our prayers.

 

[dcc617]

Greg

Believe me (and all of us) the waiting is far worse than the actual procedure. I totally agree with Bill - it will be over before you know it. Best of luck.

Dave

 

[Bina]

Marc, best wishes on Monday

 

[Greg~]

Marc
You're in our thoughts and prayers for tomorrow. You'll do just fine

 

[TheGymGuy]

Good Luck Marc. Hope to hear from you soon.

 

[Sarah_Louise]

Good luck for tomorrow
Will be thinking of you, you too greg!
Love Sarah xxx