Leaning towards mechanical valve

[mike shields]

Going to see surgeon on Friday about AVR. Was leaning towards a mechanical valve, fourth time for open heart surgery. Born with TOF, absent pulmonary valve. Had pulmonary valve replaced 3 times, plus TOF repair. Not sure if making right choice.

 

[Ross]

Hi Mike and welcome to the forums.

Why do you think you may be making the wrong choice?

The reason I ask is you've already done this thing 3 times, you certainly don't want to go a 5th round. With the T.O.F., I myself couldn't make any other choice. You should discuss this with your surgeon and see what He/she has to say.

 

[MelissaM]

Hi Mike,

Hopefully, your surgeon can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option. He or she has not only had experience with each of the valves, but has seen how they work post-surgery. Ultimately, the decision is yours, but you should be able to get some good information from your surgeon, as well as from several threads on this board.

Welcome to the forum!

Melissa

 

[Nancy]

Hi Mike-

Welcome to the site. You've certainly had your share of surgeries. If you could avoid any more in the future, sounds like the right way to go, in my opinion.

My husband has had multiple valve surgeries, and lung surgeries too. They take a toll on your body.

There are many, many threads on this site re: valve choices.

 

[Kevin M]

The risk of complications rises dramatically with each surgery. The pericardium sometimes sticks the heart to the chest wall and they have to delicately release it while being aware of blood vessels. There is also significant scarring which needs to be worked on.

If it was me, I would go with a mechanical. You don't need the worry of facing a fifth and more risky operation. I am not a medical professional. This is just my opinion.
Kev

 

[alicia]

I agree with Kevin. A mechanical valve should last you the rest of your life. You have had enough to deal with already. Good luck to you.

Alicia

 

[Johnny Stephens]

Had pulmonary valve replaced 3 times

This sentence says it all for me, but in the end, it's your choice. Some of us don't get a choice even the first time, so research it carefully and be comfortable with it before you sign.

 

[mike shields]

I would like thank all of you for your replys, after seeing the surgeon on Friday I have decided on the mechanical valve. The surgery will be booked for sometime in November. Thanks again for the replys.

 

[Nancy]

Hi Mike-

Once you have your date, let us know and we'll put it on the calendar.

Glad your choice has been made.