New guy looking for advice.

[mitchhollar]

I guess when I said new guy I am not really new to heart surgery but only to valvereplacement.com. I have had two prior open heart surgeries before including a Ross procedure in 96'. I am now scheduled to undergo an open heart for a Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm that is around 4.9 to 5.1 depending on who you talk to. I also have a defib that concerns me somewhat. I am 33 with three youngs kids who I want to be around for in the future. So I am looking for any advice from those of you who have had a TAA repaired or some other experience relative to my case.

Apparently they think my pulmonary and aortic are still alright and will try to keep them so I am only at this time having the Anuerysm repaired. Any help would be appreciated so much. I am scheduled at Indianapolis, IN. for March 24 but also got a second opinion from Cleveland Clinic and the surgeon there said to wait a year. I am very confussed by the whole thing. Should I look for a third opinion? Thanks again for any help.

 

[Mary]

I guess when I said new guy I am not really new to heart surgery but only to valvereplacement.com. I have had two prior open heart surgeries before including a Ross procedure in 96'. I am now scheduled to undergo an open heart for a Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm that is around 4.9 to 5.1 depending on who you talk to. I also have a defib that concerns me somewhat. I am 33 with three youngs kids who I want to be around for in the future. So I am looking for any advice from those of you who have had a TAA repaired or some other experience relative to my case.

Apparently they think my pulmonary and aortic are still alright and will try to keep them so I am only at this time having the Anuerysm repaired. Any help would be appreciated so much. I am scheduled at Indianapolis, IN. for March 24 but also got a second opinion from Cleveland Clinic and the surgeon there said to wait a year. I am very confussed by the whole thing. Should I look for a third opinion? Thanks again for any help.

We have several members who are waiting for an anuerysm repair. Ben Smith comes readily to mind, because he also had the Ross Procedure and although the valves are doing well, he's now dealing with a growing anuerysm. He's being followed at Cleveland Clinic. You could send him a pm or an email since I don't know if he checks the forum every day.
I'm sure others will be around to contribute, but for now, just let me extend a welcome and hope you get plenty of information and support from our group.

 

[Lynlw]

Hi Mitch Welcome. I can't really offer and advice, except are you being seen by docs that specialize in adults with CHD and wanted to suggest, if you haven't already done so, you might want to check out the forums at http://www.achaheart.org/ the org for adults with CHD. Many members there have experience with multiple OHS ect, so between these 2 places you will find lots of support and hopefully answers.
I thin it is good you are getting a 2nd op at CC Lyn

 

[hall]

Hi and Welcome! I can't help but did want to welcome you to this forum. Someone wil come along and help, I am sure.

 

[WayneGM]

Welcome to VR. Glad you found us and decided to post. Unfortunately, I can't offer any advice on your situation but I'm sure others will come along. Best wishes and good luck.

 

[halleyg]

Hi Mitch, I am sorry I don't have any help to offer, either, as I am a mitral, but just wanted to welcome you to the boards!

 

[Lionheart]

I am very confussed by the whole thing. Should I look for a third opinion? Thanks again for any help.

Hi Mitch,
Welcome aboard VR.com. You have a right to understand your options and remove your confusion. I encourage you to talk again to the two surgeons to better understand what they are recommending and why their opinions are different. You should understand and feel comfortable with your decision. If it also takes a third opinion, then I say go for it. Good luck and keep us informed.
Take care,
John

 

[Curtsmum]

Sorry no advice, just wanted to say welcome and all the best.