If it wasn't for Bad Luck I wouldn't have any Luck at all.

[Cooker]

Randy,

So sorry to hear about your problems. If I drank I might just have to tie one on But you know in your heart what you should do.

You are in my thoughts and pryers.

Tom

 

[sylviayasgur]

hi randy,
we're so sorry you're going through this....what a long haul it's been for you!
i think all the others here have said it all.
please just know that we're thinking of you and that you are in our prayers.
please keep us posted and be well,
sylvia

 

[Randy & Robyn]

I am so sorry to hear you have to go through this again. I've had two OHS in the last year and wouldn't look forward to a third either.

I would consider the On-X if I were you. Pannus overgrowth was taken into account when it was designed. Theoretically it provides a barrier against the scar tissue that no other valve provides.

Good luck,
Randy

 

[Lynlw]

Randy, I am so sorry that you can't seem to catch a break. I agree w/ everyone that suggested a 2nd opiniond and cleveland is where I would start.
If I were you I would think about one of the tissue valves, only because you seem to have other problems that are tougher to deal w/ w/ coum. hopefullly your back is all better and won't be a concern, but I would mention it to your doc when you are discussing valve choices. I will say a prayer that everything becomes clear and you will know what is just right for you. Lyn

 

[catwoman]

Randy:

I am so sorry you're facing this situation.

I agree with several others: Consult with CCF in Ohio and consider having any surgery done there. There should be a surgeon there who has experience with your situation.

 

[debster913]

Hi, Randy--
So sorry you have to deal with this, especially after everything else you've been through. I would get a second opinion from another surgeon, though. Sending lots of positive thoughts your way...
Debi (debster913)

 

[PegB]

Hi Randy,

I join with everyone in saying how sorry I am that you have to keep going through this.

I do think if you take the "wait and see" approach, you're going to make yourself crazy with the what ifs. I would certainly recommend sending your records off to CCF and get their opinion. They will review everything and get back to you with their recommendations. They have certainly seen it all and can fix you all up. As much as I'm dreading my upcoming surgery, I have confidence that my surgeon is doing the best possible work that can be done. (If THEY mess up, then I am up a creek !!).

You still have some time left this year to get this corrected and start off the new year with no more heart problems.

Hope you're not getting more confused with everyone's opinions. I feel your luck is about to change!

 

[BDMc]

I Don't Know...

I Don't Know...

Randy, I can't believe this is happening to you! When are we going to go catch that big one if you're always having surgery? Seriuosly I feel a little stunned from this news, and can only imagine how you must feel! I think I might want to wait a little, just because it is too much too soon. Wishing you the best, Your valve Bro, Brian

 

[BDMc]

Listen To Peg

Listen To Peg

I like this girl! Randy, you gotta like her advice and attitude!

 

[Turkey Hunter]

Get Drunk and Forget about it

Get Drunk and Forget about it

at least for a day.

Sorry to hear of the news. My true vote is more along the lines of second oppinion at larger more experienced facility.
Depending what your second and third oppinions say, wait, if you can until you are more back to your normal self. Another surgery this soon, would be very hard on your system. Get yourself recovered from what you were just through if you have time.

God Bless,

Ben

 

[mmarshall]

Randy,

Straight up - that sucks! I tend to agree with Ross. I think the question is timing. How long is it safe to wait. I would definitely get a second opinion from a well respected card and surgeon. Just for peace of mind if nothing else.

I would start asking/researching if tissue valves have less scar tissue formation. Also On-X marketing literature states it is longer and has leaflet protecting protrusions. Ask your doctors about info on valve performance with scar tissue.

I would also ask about geebee's post regarding steriod treatments. Might that postpone a redo?

tobogatwo seems to be our leading research guy (No intended pressure on you Bob). Have you seen any info related to valve type vs. scar tissue?

Could scar tissue be related to the skill of the surgeon? I go in for surgery consult on Friday with William Ryan - I'll ask. Thoughts on this anyone?!!

Good luck Randy. Have a drink or two (in moderation of course). Go catch some fish (as soon as the back allows). Play some poker (if that's your game) and get away from it for a minute if you can. Take a little time to clear your head and then talk to another doc.

Be strong.

hey david,
i don't think scar tissue has anything to do with the surgeon...it has to do with the individual patient's healing process. some people keloid and some people don't. the problem is that nobody knows what to expect until it is done...kind of like coumadin. on yea...tell dr. ryan that the guy with the m&m tattoo said hey...he is a great guy. they all still get a kick out of it...lol

 

[bvdr]

Randy, I am so sorry you are in this predicament. If it was me, I wouldn't consider putting myself back in the same hands of anyone who had worked on me before regardless of their credentials, experience, bedside manner, or anything. I would want the doctor most experienced working on/in challenging hearts because you clearly are not in the "average" or "uncomplicated" groups.
The timing is another matter. I think perhaps you might just want to get all this behind you and get it done as soon as everything is in place otherwise this could be affecting you not only physically but emotionally on a daily basis. Again, I am so sorry you are in the position you are.

 

[Nan]

Hi Randy, given what Gina and Arlys have said about scar tissue or threads breaking off of the scar tissue and causing strokes, IMHO you should be considering surgery .....but only after second, third or however many second opinions you need to feel sure about what is happening. And the second opinion option at CCF sounds like a really good idea for you.

What a terrible thing for you to have to be going through ...contemplating OHS again.....Wow. I can't believe you seem so calm.

Hang in there! And keep us posted as to what is happening!

 

[Granbonny]

Hi Randy

Hi Randy

I agree with Betty..After all, she is a nurse. I just ran all your threads and never did see where you mentioned..your surgeon/Hospital?Not that it matters..but, I was thinking maybe..if you didn't want to go to cleveland...try my group in Atlanta. ( I think we now have 5 members who have had their surgeries with them) at St. Joseph's.. will be glad to PM the Surgeons names/phone, ect. .Also, the UAB in Birmingham, Alabama..Dr. Pacifico name comes up a lot.. I can think of 3 members who have had their surgery there in last year or so........Just thinking that it would be closer..with you down there in Orlando...and wanting the boys to be close by......so they could drive up...8 hours to Atlanta by car. maybe 10 hours to Birmingham..... have a drink and think about it. Bonnie( p.S.) Plus I could come down to Atlanta and hold your hand.

 

[pipersmith]

Sorry ;0)

Sorry ;0)

I am sorry to hear of your difficult news. I agree with the advice of all those posting before me. You are so helpful in your posts - especially to those of us new here. I just wanted to add my well-wishes.

Your pictures are also beautiful. I considered showing my husband - but decided against it. He would have the moving truck packed tomorrow! He'll have us living in Cedar Key before it's all over ;0)

Good luck - you have an incredible attitude and outlook!!

 

[PJmomrunner]

Randy, this really does suck--straight up!

Betty, Arlyss and Rachel are on the right page. Don't mess around with anyone but the best of the best. Even the best preoperative imaging leaves something open to question...best to be in the hands of someone who has seen it all. Sounds like you have time to look for your surgeon.

 

[gijanet]

Just wanting to send hugs.................

Just wanting to send hugs.................

I'm so sorry that you are going through this. Katie had her last three surgeries over a fifteen month period. That was bad enough! Three in 12 months???? You poor thing.

I can only reiterate what the others have said. Go for the best. Even though Katie's surgeon is one of the best in the world - yes, world! in complex congenital heart defects, we still sought out a second opinion from Cleveland before her last surgery (ies). (and we had already sought out four others before her second surgery - yes, I am the official queen of additional opinions!) We opted to stay with our surgeon, but it provided peace of mind for what little piece of mind I have left.

Go get that second opinion. You can get drunk while you await the results. Besides that, trying to get through to anyone at Cleveland will drive you to drink.

YOu have got to get better as you have got to take my son on a fishing trip. He's hooked...........pun intended.

Much love and many prayers. J.

 

[Sandy SHields]

Well as some of you know I recently needed clearance from my Cardio to have back surgery(that I still believe was caused by my OHS) and after several tests Echo(in office), Echo(in hospital), TEE(in hospital) I was cleared for the back surgery but was told to consult with my surgeon about my Echo and TEE results afterwar TODAY WAS THE CONSULT.

My new St Jude valve is leaking do to PANUS at a moderate to severe rate.For those of you who don't know what Panus is, it is when scar tissue has grown on my valve hindering its performance to close properly, thus creating leakage otherwise known as regurgitation.

Here are tthe outcomes of my valve according to my surgeon
1. It won't get better and surgery will definately have to take place again.
2. It might happen soon.
3. It might take a while for this to happen
4. If I ignore this and do nothing as it gets worse I will end up with CHF(same senario as bad aortic stenosis valve)

Basically the way I see it I am in the exact same place I was 9 months ago only not at a risk of falling over dead tomorrow. This will be my 3rd OHS this year if I choose to go ahead now. It will be the 4th time I will go under general anthstesia this year.(TALK ABOUT PUMP HEAD )

I really don't know what to do( Why do we always have to make these decisions? Can't the Doc make them for us? Just LIE about it or something, sure would be easier)

I would ask you fellow valvers if this happened to you today, what would you do?
1. Go for the operation?
2.Take await and see attitude?
3. Get Drunk and forget about it?

Oh yea and my sew ring is leaking too.

I think I will make a poll and put up some fishing pics to give Dennis a run for his money.lol J/K Dennis I love your pics, you really have some talent there.

P.S. For having a leak my St Jude would definately beat out Big Ben in a ticking contest right now.

Hi Harry sounds as if you are having a hard time of it. I can't even imagine 3 ohs much less another one to look at. All I wanted to say is i'm am sorry you have to go through this. I had one open heart surgery 24 years ago and I really don't want to have another. God bless you and I will add you to my prayers

 

[Barbara Stewart]

Randy,
A second opinion is probably in order. That said, I like to get an unpleasant thing over with and not just worry about it. If it is going to have to be done, sooner or later, I'd choose sooner. Of course, you know what is right for you.

I'm sorry you're having it so rough. My measly 2 surgeries in one year don't seem so bad. Let us know what you decide.
Barbara

 

[Paul117]

what a bummer!

what a bummer!

Randy

I've had two OHS in the last year myself and all I can add is that if I had to go through what you are facing I would take the first plane to Cleveland. We have the best here in Milwaukee and yet I'd probably go to Cleveland
I'll be thinking of you