Variability Of Echocardiograms

[Mike From Michigan]

The next test is....

The next test is....

I just got back from my meeting with the surgeon (Rich: It is Dr. Shannon from the SMCS (i.e., the Bassett group) you mentioned..). After a long discussion he decided that the best test will be an MRI which is good news for me since it is non-invasive. He said that will give him all the data that a cath. test would and even more. It's funny how different Drs. seem to prefer different tests to look at the same things. I asked him about the TEE test but he said that he prefers the MRI to that - he even wants to be there during the test to make sure the technician is getting the right scans for the valve, aorta and left ventricle which I found to be both surprising and comforting. I feared he would just say that it would be better just to cut me open and look at things that way (like the 2nd opinion Dr. recommended). He agreed that I am in the gray area and hopefully this MRI in a few weeks will give us better direction.

I was very impressed with this Dr., unlike the 2nd opinion guy who seemed annoyed with my questions. The saga continues...

 

[Nancy]

Sounding good!

 

[xtremlee]

My cardio told me reading an echo was like reading doplar radar. That looks like a tornado.

 

[tobagotwo]

I didn't know an MRI was as good as a cath to the surgeon. I want that next time!

They're going to sign me up for an MRI in a few weeks to check my subclavian carotid artery areas. Sounds like they could have done it all at once. *expletive deleted!*

 

[Rich]

Hi Mike,
I sure like the sound of that.
If they can get the info they need from an MRI that's great, and a whole lot less grief.
Glad to hear you are going with that surgical team, they are the very best in my opinion.
My surgeon was Paul Clancy but he is semi-retired and from what I hear just does consultations now.
Sounds like you are on the right track.

Rich