Went to see the surgeon

[nebtargh]

Hey Guys,

I went and had my TEE today. It really wasn't too bad. My throat still is sore though. It looks as though I will get my surgery in about 2-4 weeks. Just in time for the holidays. Getting it done at the Univ. of Maryland.
Talk to you all soon. Take care.

Al

 

[aussiemember]

Hi Al,

Glad the TEE went well - what did it show?? Do they think they will be able to do a repair of the valve?? All the best as you prepare for surgery - be sure to ask any questions you may have

 

[nebtargh]

getting surgery soon

getting surgery soon

The TEE showed severe regurg. He said he is 95% sure he can repair, but he wants to do a plan B which he recommended a cow's valve or a mechanical valve. This cow's valve will only last 8 years, but the next surgery will be more dangerous, but the mechanical valve will last forever. The only drawback would be is the coumedin. I leaning towards the mechanical. If anyone else has mechanical please let me know.

Thanks,

Al

 

[ALCapshaw2]

My surgeon agreed to implant a Bovine Pericardial Valve but after seeing the extent of Radiation Damage, implanted a St. Jude Mechanical with the requirement of lifetime anticoagulation therapy.

I was disappointed but accepted the outcome. Living with Coumadin has not be as difficult or worrisome as I feared. Browse in the AntiCoagulation Forum and read AL Lodwick's informative website www.warfarinfo.com to learn all you need to know about living with / on Coumadin. Karlynn wrote an EXCELLENT summary the topic but I don't remember the link. Hopefully it is / or will be / posted in the Reference Forum.

'AL Capshaw'

 

[pipersmith]

I am glad that you have some definites - I would imagine that offers a little peace. I hope that you have a successful repair. I myself will choose a mechanical if a repair is out of the question - would not chose to have additional ops if possible.
Best of luck to you ~