Can the heart rebound?

[Der Biermeister]

My latest tests show degradation of the heart -- EF is down somewhere to 40-50%, I now have "mild" mitral valve regurgition and suspicion of the same thing on Triscupid valve. (Not there 6 months ago) Of course my Aortic valve is now READY for replacement. (if you haven't been following my case -- I get my new valve and some bypasses this coming Wed).

So -- I am just curious if after a new Aortic valve and bypasses, and of course the heart rehab that I will do, is it possible to get the heart to heal all over and get back somewhere close to what was normal? I realize a lot of your answers will state "everyone is different, etc., etc." But in general terms, can there be some actual improvement vs. just maintaining "what is"?

 

[tobagotwo]

In general terms, the answer is that yes, by far most hearts improve greatly after the surgery. Barring complications and comorbid conditions (other health problems), most valve recipients can expect a normal lifespan after successful surgery.

Valve surgery won't fix everything that's wrong with your heart, but should improve it greatly overall, as it makes the heart's job much easier.

Best wishes,

 

[cocoalab]

I certainly hope so! I have seen many people who have had improvements from their cardaic function to their claims to feel much better several months after surgery.

We are hoping that Andrew's EF will improve since his MI and surgery. He seems stronger to me already.

 

[Georgia]

It took more than a year, but my left ventricle returned to normal and my EF increased from 45 to 70. Give it time - it probably took a long time to get to where it is now!