Visit with Robotic Surgeon

[KatieD]

Well, I'm one step closer to surgery today. I had a TEE done last week and then met with a surgeon today who does minimally invasive robotic surgery (Da Vinci). He said with severe regurgitation I need surgery even without my heart being enlarged.

As an aside, I found the "normal" heart size odd because the measurements I have gotten from my other echos have always shown my heart is enlarged, but the TEE shows it as "normal". I guess it depends on the range they're using for normal, I didn't get any measurements.

The robotic surgery sounds interesting, but not for me at this time. My next step is to contact my sister's surgeon, Dr. Ryan, in Dallas and get his opinion on the TEE.

 

[briansmom]

Sherri,
I didn't understand from your post why you couldn't do the robotic surgery? Also, I think the TEE is more accurate than an echo. Maybe that is why the heart size reads differently.

 

[KatieD]

Deanne,

What I meant was not that I "couldn't" do robotic surgery, but I "wouldn't" do robotic surgery. After my discussion with the doctor I think it's too new and he's done too few. He said he's done 18 surgeries in the last 12 to 14 months and they have all been repairs, none have had to be replacements. That sounded like a REALLY small number to me and I don't want to be the first one he does that has to be a replacement.

I understand the accuracy of the TEE, but it seemed odd that all the other echos would show enlargement. I know there are often differences from the technician doing the test and the doctor interpreting it, but it's been pretty consistent. I guess the lungs and ribs in the way could have distorted the size.

 

[briansmom]

Sherri,
I understand now. I am right there with you about the experience factor. I have only heard about robotic repairs also.

 

[67walkon]

I saw a demonstration of the Da Vinci system at a local hospital here. It is very impressive. However, I agree you want someone with a lot more experience.