Multiple surgeries

[Bobbysgirl]

Hello. I have a hx of two surgeries, the first to repair my Mitral Valve and the second to replace it. The replacement was 15 years ago and I just celebrated the big 4-0. I also found out that I most likely will be facing a third surgery in the future to replace my Aortic valve. I now have moderate to severe Aortic Insufficiency.

I guess I'm just worried about the fact of adhesions (scarring). I have had one sternotomy and one thorocotomy (side) incision. I read about the heart being scarred to the back of the sternum and how difficult it can be to reopen a chest.

What do you guys know about this? Have you or a loved one experienced this? I just feel that after two surgeries my poor heart may be plastered to the inside of my chest and it scares me.

Thanks.

 

[geebee]

Had 3 surgeries

Had 3 surgeries

Welcome to the website.
I have had 3 surgeries, the last one in 1994. My surgeon was concerned the last time because scar tissue can sometimes affect access to the areas needed to hook up the heart-lung machine. He prepped the groin area just in case he was unable to "get through" the scar tissue closer to the heart.
Everything went fine. He was able to do the surgery "normally", did not need the groin area for access and everything went great. In fact, my recovery the third time was the easiest although I seemed to have a bit more cognitve problems (speaking oddly, switching words, etc.). However that went away fairly quickly and we even had a few laughs about the way I spoke. Laughter is a good healer.
It took a little longer for my scar to heal and, of course, the scar didn't fade as much but it is a roadmap indicating my travel to good health.
I do have a problem with atrial fib due to the poor atrium being so tortured. However I don't feel it most of the time (unless I do very heavy exercise) and I am not yet on medication for the fib. I have to watch my coumadin levels very closely because blood clots are a concern with atrial fib (as well as with the valve) but things seem fine.
Be sure and ask your surgeon about your concerns and be comforted if he indicates a third surgery is tougher to do. That will mean he will be watching out for the problems that could come up.
The heart is a pretty strong organ; it can take a lot of abuse. Isn't is great that we live in a time that all these problems can be fixed?
Take care and keep us posted.
Gina

 

[Nancy]

Joe has had three valve surgeries. One aortic replacement in 1977, a mitral replacement in 1999, both sternum access, and a repair on the mitral which was through the side using the HeartPort method.

Most experienced surgeons are used to dealing with repeat valve surgeries. But scarring and adhesions can be a problem. Joe did not have any major problems after any of these surgeries. However, his recovery might have been a little longer than others who are going into this as a "virgin".

I do believe that the body takes much longer to recover after repeat major trauma.

You should do OK.

Best wishes.

 

[Harpoon]

The problem with old scarring and adhesion to the chest wall is that when they initially open your chest up for access to the heart, they might tear tissues (or whatever) in the process that would create a lot of bleeding.

Or at least that's how it was explained to me by Dr. Mee before I had my tricuspid valve replaced. I had surgery as an infant, 28 years before my valve replacement.

They'll prep the groin area to set up heart/lung bypass if things get "messy" in the chest and they need to stop rapid blood loss in a hurry.

It rarely happens, but it's a possibility they must be prepared for and also warn patients about.

Generally though, it should be OK. Surgeon's are VERY methodical in their procedures and prefer not to rush things. They'll take their time to prevent as many complications as they can, including having to deal with scar tissue that's become fused to the inside of the ribcage or whatever.

 

[Abbanabba]

Hmmmm.... now I've got a clearer idea of what my surgeon was talking about when he told me he would have to "chisel" my heart out (..I kid you not!!..). Not a pretty picture, but I'm sure they're a little gentler than that - or at least I hope so!!

I guess if they know it's a likelihood, then they're prepared for it and have appropriate procedures to follow.

A : )

 

[kurli]

Hi,
I have had three surgeries. 1 cath 2 ohs.
When I had my VR almost 2 years ago the surgeon told me that it may be a little more dangerous due to the scar tissue from the previous ohs when i was 2 years old.
Every thing went fine. I too will have to have another VR in about 20 years (when im in my 40's) They have told me that this will be more of a risk but as every one else has said, they know what they are doing and have solutions for pretty much everything that can come up.

I hope all goes well for you.

 

[ticktock]

Bobbysgirl

Sounds good that you have had one sternal and one thoractomoy. Leaves more options for the future!! I have had 3 OHS through the sternum, the third obviously being the most difficult. The 4th OHS, was a thoracotomy. I am known to be a horrible scar maker, but I made it and am doing just FINE!

The third surgery took longer, was on the pump longer, but it was very successful in replacing my aortic valve. The fourth was QUICK and of course there was no question of scarring, since it hadn't been cut before.

You will be fine!!! Hang in there and don't be a'scairt!
mindy