Just entered the waiting room

[kayakbob]

Last Friday my doctor gave me the news that none of us wants to hear. After knowing I had a heart murmur all my life, I was told that my echocardiogram indicated I had a severe mitral valve prolapse with a regrurgitant orifice area of 0.4cm2 and a regurgitant volume of 70ml. I just turn 57, go to the gym 3 times per week, and this past summer regularly rode my recumbent bicycle 40 -50 miles on the weekends. I do not have any symptoms except for feeling my heartbeat (uncomfortably) while lying in bed.

I have been in Seattle (where I saw a cardiologist @ UW) since July helping my 20 year old son with his treatment for a serious illness and plan on returning to Southern California late November. I am just starting my research in monitoring and treatment options. I know I could have 5 - 10 years before I need surgery but I would like to find a good cardiologist in the Los Angeles area sooner rather than later. I would appreciate recommendations of cardiologist in the LA area as well as other information that will assist me while I get my arms around my new reality.

I appreciate the group of you that have been through the MV repair/replacement process that stays connected to this web site, giving those of us who are newly diagnosed access to invaluable information and support. Bob

 

[neil]

sorry to hear that bob, am sure others will soon come along who can help you,

 

[Luana]

Well, there are big guns at USC, UCLA and Cedars. There are also great docs at Long Beach Memorial. My cardiologist and surgeon are from there.

 

[nngbwh]

Welcome aboard, Bob. I am sure someone gonna to come along and give you more info.

 

[Marguerite53]

Hi. Just wanted to say welcome. I have a son in Seattle, too! And you and I are the same age.
Can't help you specifically in the valve department, as my aortic valve was what was replaced (5+ years ago -- woohoo! I'm alive!).

It's great that you are in such wonderful physical health. I was not, particularly -- strong as a horse, but not athletic in any way. I came through my surgery trouble-free! (knock on wood for saying so). My point is, you can't beat this with good health practice. If "they" say you need the surgery, don't balk. The fact that you take such good care of yourself will allow you a strong and speedy recovery.

I'm sure you will have over-choice problems finding quality care in LA!! And then all that healthy sunshine to recover in!

Best wishes and stick around! We're a good bunch all around!

Marguerite

 

[Protimenow]

My AVR was performed 20 years ago by Taro Yokoyama, who practiced at St. Vincent's in L.A. I don't know if he's even around. At the time, he was one of the most experienced at valve replacement. But, again, twenty years have passed, and there are probably a LOT of excellent surgeons very experienced at this type of surgery.

Sorry I can't help you with more current information.

 

[susieq14]

Hello Bob! sorry to hear your news. I know that feeling - I was told in 2004 at age 53 that I had "moderate to severe" mitral regurgitation but no mv prolapse. Since then it was downgraded for a few years to mild but now it is back to moderate. I hate the uncertainty of it all. I live on the east coast so can't give you any help with docs but I did want to wish you the very best as you try to get a handle on possible surgery. I also send good thoughts and prayers for your son .

 

[Julian]

I had my surgery done at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach by Dr. Aidan Raney. He is known for working magic with MV repair. I would check this out if I were you.

 

[Greg a]

Nelson, was the nautical ref intentional?

Welcome aboard, Bob. I am sure someone gonna to come along and give you more info.

Welcome to our family Kayak (assuming last name is Bob):eek2: we are all brothers and sisters in OHS if your last name is Bob are you related to :eek2::biggrin2::biggrin2::http://www.valvereplacement.org/forums/member.php?9303-CanoeBob:biggrin2: okay its getting late ...tired and silly .........WELCOME BOB

 

[CanoeBob]

Welcome Bob,

I could've taken kayakbob as a handle too, I have both a canoe and kayak. The canoe is my favorite, I built it back in 92, woodstrip Redbird from Ted Moore's CanoeCraft. Built a kayak in 04, Resoulute model from Ted's book kayakcraft and a course from Ted, a wonderful experience. The pleasure of messing about in wooden boats has sustained me through the pre-op and post-op, there is always serenity when I remember my trips. Hang in there!

Bob

 

[kayakbob]

Thanks for the welcome to the group. In doing my research on the treatment of MV disease with severe regurgitation, it seems much of the current opinions/ research indicates that it is prudent for asymtomatic patients to get the surgery (repair hopefully) so there is no damage to the heart. Have many of you followed this course or have you waited for symtoms prior to proceeding with surgery? Bob

 

[Jkm7]

There are so many more AVR here than mitral it always catches my attention when someone shares a mitral problem..... that's the valve I had replaced over three years ago. It was my second OHS in four years and went really well. If it is any comfort, I'm doing great and had a very easy time of it with that surgery. I had a bump free, good recovery and wish the same for you.