Submammary Incision Aortic Valve Replacement

[attissy]

Hello,
I recently underwent aortic valve replacement surgery (04/05/2006) and subsequently a pacemaker insertion due to some rhythm problems following the replacement. The incision performed during my surgery was a bilateral submammary incision, which means they incised horizontally underneath both breasts (almost from armpit to armpit). I am just wondering if anyone else out there underwent this type of incision and if so did you experience any complications, such as a numbing sensation or muscle pulling? I cannot seem to find very much postoperative information regariding this. Any feedback is most appreciated. Thanks!

 

[Ross]

Hello and welcome

To be honest, I don't recall anyone having this type of incision, so you may well be the first. Any time they cut through that area, nerve endings are getting severed and muscle too. I would not doubt that you have numbness, tingling, or even pain at times. Sometimes the endings grow back together, sometimes not. It does take many years though.

 

[Andrew'sMom]

Just the other day I was reading about Maia on the "In Memoriam" page and went back to read her threads. She describes her first surgery in a way that sounds like what you are talking about, accessing the heart by going under the breast. While Maia did not make it through her second surgery, perhaps you may find some information in her posts that may be helpful to you.

 

[attissy]

I would like to thank you both for getting back to my question so quickly. I have had a lot of difficulty finding out anything about this type of incision so I sincerely appreciate your help.

Andrew's Mom: I did check out Maiae's posts and her incision sounds similar to mine and just as uncomfortable. I do appreciate again you taking the time to direct me to this information. My prayers go out to her family.

Thanks again!