Need suggestions getting a consult

[KathyH]

Hi,
I just called my Cardio to find out my echo results, I got an appt for a week from tomorrow.
I have a mod-severe aortic valve regurgatation and 4.7 ascending aneurysm (as of last March by CT scan) and I am a 49 yo diabetic. The only symptoms I have are an occassional Shortness of breath- like climbing a couple flights of stairs in a hurry, an occassional hacking cough and I have noticed occassional hoarness to my voice.
I am looking for any suggestions on asking for a cardiac surgeon consult.I thought about asking to see another cardiologist, but the one I have don't have a problem with, and I figure if a surgeon will be doing surgery at least he could tell me the best time to have it done. (Does this sound right to you?) I would like to go to Boston since they have 3 of the top heart centers in the country. I noticed that Beth Israel has 2 aortic specialist- anyone have any experience there? Last time I mentioned my aneurysm, I was told by the Dr that she was more worried about my valve and I didn't say anything. I don't want to chicken out when I go to ask a question this time. Helpful suggestions please!!
Thank you for listening to me ramble on.
Kathy H

 

[bvdr]

Hi Kathy,

Does your insurance company require referrals for specialists?
Mine did not. If not, you could check with the surgeon you want to see to find out if he requires a referral.

I found out the surgeon I wanted to see did not require referrals on "clinic" days. I made my own appointment and brought some records and had the rest sent.

 

[RickKiem]

KathyH, I am in a simular situation as you and just saw the surgeon today. I also have an ascending aortic aneurysm (5.0cm) and moderate aortic insufficiency. I also have a bicuspid aortic valve. It was recomended that by my surgeon that we repair the aneurysm and replace the valve a soon as practical. I really believe that you need to go ahead and consult a surgeon and get their point of view. Every case is different but as i'm sure everyone hear will tell you, you have to take an active role in you health care. I hope this helps. We will be thinking about you and hope that you will let everyone know what you find out.

Rick

 

[KathyH]

Betty,
My insurance company does require a referral. I should be able to get one, or else I guess I will have to change Dr's. I printed up several Dr's names that specialize in aneurysm and valve surgeries and plan on bringing them with me. I was hoping to get someone who had personal experience with one of the Dr's, but there doesn't seem to be too many people from New England area.

 

[ALCapshaw2]

Kathy,

If you can wait until your Cardio appt, ask him for a copy of your Echo results (they can put them on a CD rom for the surgeon to view) and ask for a referal to discuss your situation with a surgeon. Your Cardio will probably even recommend a surgeon, or at least choose one of from your list.

Note that Cardiologists seem to like to postpone surgery as long as possible (by using blood pressure meds to lower internal BP). The DOWN SIDE of this philosophy is that PERMANENT DAMAGE can be done to the heart as it compensates for a valve that is closing. Surgeons tend to prefer to operate before damage is done to the heart muscle. Personally, I side with the surgeons philosophy and therefore encourage you to follow through with a surgical consultation.

Good luck with your cardio!

'AL'