Surgeons Report

[Soilman]

Well, I went for my second opinion to a surgeon in Raleigh today. As some of you may remember, I had some concern about my left ventrical beginning to enlarge after my last echo. The surgeon more or less agreed with my cardiologist about no surgery just yet. Though my heart is enlarged, he said that all my heart function was normal, other pertnant numbers were within "non-operation" perameters and I am having no symptoms. He recommended that I have another echo in 3 months rather than six and will consult with my cardiologist about this. This makes me feel a little more at ease. I did get the impression that if the heart is enlarged much more on the next echo, that he would likely talk about surgery at that point. He did say that, in general, he thought the medical profession as a whole waits to long before surgery. We also discussed valve types a little. He advocates mechanical for me at my age, and the On-X in particular. This pleased me in that I'm strongly leaning towards the On-X anyway, at least at this point.

 

[Superbob]

Sounds like they're watching you closely. That pretty much parallels my experience. Yearly echos, then every 6 months, then every 3, as the enlargement progressed. Sounds, too, like you are doing your homework on valve type and prepared to select one that's right for you. I know this is a nervous time for you but sounds like you are on track. All best wishes to you. Let us know how you're doing.

 

[67walkon]

Soilman, I'm right there with you. My first appointment with the surgeon is 2 weeks from today. I'm hoping the aortic root isn't dilated too much and we can put the surgery off a bit since I am asymptomatic, but I will listen to what the surgical guys say, talk to my regular doc and make the best decision I can. After nosing around here for a bit, I am not as apprehensive about the surgery as I once was, although I am worried about how long it will take me to get back to "normal", whatever that will be.

John

 

[hensylee]

sounds like they are right on top of your situation and will keep you safe. We will be here, too, to give you answers and support.

 

[Marguerite53]

Good job watching out for yourself! I think an echo in 3 months sounds perfect. I would relax, now, and go about my life as normal....no worries. Your surgeon was good to tell you that sometimes things get put off too long. That comment means he is on your side....watchful and concerned.

Excellent.

Marguerite

 

[Karlynn]

If you got a "wait" from the surgeon, then I'd feel pretty good about that. Be mindful of any nuanced changes and report them. I say that because my cardio sent me back to the surgeon when I told him I was getting SOB washing my hair in the shower (arms raised above head). But with a 3 mo. check, that would make me secure.