Surprise valve replacements?

[Dorsai]

My aortic root aneurysm repair is coming up fast (October 21), and on the whole I am good to go - in large part due to all the information and support I've received here. I'm really down to one last question that I haven't been able to find an answer for...

I had a TEE done a couple of weeks ago so that my surgeon could get a good look at my aortic valve. Both he and my regular cardiologist are confident that my valve is a perfectly normal tricuspid valve, with the modest regurgitation being caused solely by the aneurysm pulling on it. So they're both of the opinion that I will keep it.

My question is this: what are the odds that I will end up with a valve replacement anyway? In other words, how often do surgeons believe going in that they will be able to keep the valve, only to discover once they're in there that something isn't right, and they have to replace it? My surgeon (Dr. Edward Chen) made it clear that this is a possibility, but frankly I am counting on it not happening.

So...does anyone know how often this happens?

 

[ALCapshaw2]

I don't have any hard numbers, BUT it is NOT unheard of to have one's First Choice NOT be viable for any number of reasons.

Therefore, it is Always a Good Idea to have a Plan B, "just in case". SO, think about what type of replacement valve you would prefer in the event Dr. Chen is unable to save your original valve. Then let him know your second preference.

'AL Capshaw'

 

[Dorsai]

I've got my Plan B in place...On-X valve if it's available and the surgeon concurs, whatever mechanical valve Dr. Chen recommends if it isn't. I'm staying away from the biological valves since, at age 39, I'd probably need several more surgeries in my life and I'd like to avoid that.

At this point I'm just wondering what the odds are of Plan B coming into play.

 

[ALCapshaw2]

Good Choice (IMO

Dr. Chen should be familiar with the On-X Valves since Emory is the Hospital that is sponsoring the On-X No/Low Anti-Coagulation Studies.

The Best Way to resolve your uncertainties would be to have another discussion with Dr. Chen about his assessment of the chances he would not be able to save your native valve and if he would use an On-X as your back-up option.

Note that as he already indicated, there is probably No way he can be Certain about saving your native valve until he 'gets in there' to see for himself. Several members have reported that their valves were found to be in much worse condition than pre-surgery test results indicated.

At some point, we ALL had to take that "leap of faith".

Hopefully you will find that sense of Peace that comes with acceptance of your condition and decison(s).

'AL C'

 

[tobagotwo]

Most modified David procedures end up as predicted before the surgery. I agree with Al, though, that if you are still concerned, you should speak to Dr, Chen again.

Best wishes,