Second Surgery - The Wait Begins

[tambrock]

Hi all - I have not posted in several years but I am back again.

I have found that unlike a first surgery many cardiologists postpone the second surgery due to increased risks. I have some questions if anyone has info that would be helpful.
1. I had my first surgery 20 years ago this month - then they said a second surgery is higher risk but I don't remember the statistics (they may have changed in 20 years). Does anyone know how much the risks increase for #2?
2. I currently have a Mechanical Mitral Valve so valve selection is not much of an issue - I now am in need of a new Aortic Valve (SAS .91 and moderate leakage). Struggling with AFlutter/Afib. Is minimal invasive surgery an option for this? I know Emory has been making strides and Cleveland Clinic is doing this.
3. My Dr has not given me any time line for when I will need the surgery.
Anyone have experience with when a 2nd surgery is recommended? My Doctor just says "not yet".

Also - I am starting a new job next week and a little concerned about how long I will be able to work. Started on Sotalol last week and it is kicking my
a**. Still having Aflutter....ugh...I'm worried.

Thanks.

Tammy

MVR 04/1989
SAS/MAI

 

[Nancy]

When Joe had his second, the risks were almost the same as for the first one, just slightly higher. It was the third one that had a jump. And the fourth, well, let's just say, no one wanted to operate.

It depends on your overall health, but for a second operation you should do just fine, if you are otherwise healthy.

 

[Jkm7]

I had second OHS just over a year ago and it was my second in four years.
When my mitral valve went bad and needed replacement, they did it then as that is when it was needed. My surgeon was not overly concerned about it being a re-op. He had done my first and being a very experienced Mass General surgeon, he was confident all should go well..... and it did.

The stress of waiting for the surgery was the worst part of it.
I went through the second far easier than my first and I wish the same for you.

 

[kschul]

Tammy,
I know Northwestern is doing a non-FDA approved procedure called percutaneous aortic valve replacement. Because is is not FDA approved you would have to meet the study criteria but it is worth looking into to see if you would qualify. I think it is usually for older/more frail patients but it involves snaking a catheter up and "releasing" a valve that pushes your old one out of the way. Otherwise, they have been doing minimally invasive aortic valve replacements there as well. Good luck!!

Kris

 

[tambrock]

Thanks for the replies. I will talk to my Doctor (he is at Emory) and ask him about the minimally invasive. I am hoping for 2 years wait to get settled in my new job etc.
I am in my mid 40's and I guess relatively healthy considering my valve issues.

Nancy - Hi - It is good to see you are still posting. You were such a great source of support 4 or 5 years ago when my father was in the hospital. If you remember they told us he was not going to make it but he did. We were blessed with his presence for another few years and then he passed peacefully in his sleep.

Again thanks for all of your replies!