Heart Surgery in Older Patients

[tobagotwo]

Interesting article form the Minneapolis-St. Paul Tribune (via Associated Press) about survival rates in older patients:
http://www.startribune.com/lifestyl...ks7PYDiaK7DUvDE7aL_V_BD77:DiiUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUU

Best wishes,

 

[Mary]

I don't know whether to cheer or jeer!
I'd hate to undergo another replacement at the age of 80, but considering the alternative, it would be hard to decline!

 

[skeptic49]

"65 percent survived without surgery-related complications and even more without long-term complications ? a "very, very remarkable" result, Kurlansky said."

That is really impressive. The article doesn't address what will surely be a controversial aspect this - the cost to society of health care advances for an ageing population.

JIm

 

[catwoman]

Bob:

Thanks for posting the link. I read the AP story this morning at breakfast. I noticed that it stated that doctors have gotten better at trying to determine who would do well with surgery, rather than operating on everyone, which would reduce the mortality risk.

 

[Marty]

Marcia, You got it just right. Its the condition of the patient not the age that determines the surgery. I was 72 when I had my surgery. I asked the surgeon if I wasn't too old for mitral valve replacement. He said "No way, earlier this week I did aortic and mitral valves on an 85 year old and he's doing fine ready to go home"

 

[ponytaila1a]

I agree with Jim. At some point the cost will determine who can have surgery and who cannot. At nearly $ 150,000 a pop the Medicare stystem is quickly being drained. Interestingly a friend just had valve replaced.....79.......did so well the hospital is including his case in their latest advertising video!!

 

[Marty]

Look, there is more medical care available than we as a society can afford.
Those with money will get it no matter what;for those with limited means, care will be rationed.