"i have never used the on-x valve"

[alex c.]

Hi, I was reading your story and it sounds a bit similar to mine. I had a mitral & aortic valve replacement in 2006. I did extensive research prior to even talking to my surgeon. I had decided on On-X valves. When I went to see him, he recommended St Jude as that is all he has ever implanted. I told him, I wanted On-X and he said he couldn't because On-X only made the aortic. I said fine, so I did more research, and found On-X also had the mitral I needed. I contacted Cathy Burnett, she gave me the contact info to the rep for my region. I called him and talked to him, he then scheduled an appt w/my surgeon, and he agreed to implant the On-X. I felt very good about him & the On-X valve, so it didn't matter that I was his first On-X patient. It took a bit of work, but that's what I got. I even have the little warranty booklets to prove it!

You still have a few months. If this surgeon can't even answer your questions, I would be doing research on other doctors. Who's to say you ask for On-X and he implants a St Jude anyway? I think I've read about that happening before. Only someone asked for St Jude & got On-X. Lucky.

 

[S2R1000]

New Guy with On-X done March 07

New Guy with On-X done March 07

I was told a funny telling line by a nurse at the Cleveland Clinic

Surgeons even the best of them switch wives more than valves.

In discussion with numerous consulting surgeons I was told that the primary hesitation is with an increased level of difficulty in securing the valve "parachuting as they call it" into position. I deceided that I dont want to use a surgeon who finds it difficult. I am dissappointed in hearing of your poor service / response. Especially if you are flipping the bill. If you are geographically stuck I would stick with the one the surgeon knows to use the best. If you are unstuck then I would contact the manufacturer of the valve you wish (I did). Just be happy with your decision and resolved with your circumstances. Your around to think about it right? These valves are all great. The long term outcome depends more on you and the surgeons skill than the valve.