Recent content by nightingale

I had an AVR in 11/06. At that time my aorta was normal in size. 5 years after that I was told it had grown to 4 cm. A year and a half later it 4.5 cm, and it was decided I needed surgery due in part to the relatively fast growth. On the other hand, I have heard from many people who are in the...

I have had an aortic valve replacement for BAV, and 7 years later had to have an ascending aortic aneurysm repair and graft. After that I started going to a cardiologist that specializes in cardiac anomalies, and he did advise me to have an MRI of the brain. I believe he said that we have about...

Thank you both for replying. AZ Don, what you describe is exactly what I am feeling. I think what you said makes sense, something to do with the graft transmitting things differently. I agree, definitely something I can live with.

Hello to all! I had an AVR replacement for BAV 7 years ago. Just 3 months ago, I had an ascending and arch aortic aneurysm repair. Since my second surgery, I have this feeling of heavy heart pounding from time to time, especially if I yawn or take a deep breath. I don't remember experiencing...

Hi ctyguy, I haven't been on this site for a while, but saw your posting and had to answer. I had a Hi ctyguy, I haven't been on this site in a while, but saw your posting and had to answer. I had an AVR 7 years ago for a BAV. Thought that was the end of it until a couple of years ago when...

Good luck Tony, will send positive vibes your way on the 24th. My surgery day is actually before yours, 09/12/13 (ascending aortic aneurysm repair). We'll have to compare notes on the other side!

I consider myself more of a plodder than a runner, but I started running 6 weeks after surgery. By that I mean slow jogging/ walking. At 4 months post-op I ran a 5K and won my age group. My time wasn't great, but I was proud of myself. I was a month shy of being 50 at the time. I am now getting...

Thank you for the detailed posting. I am going in for the second time on Seotember12, and remember a lot of the things you talked about. Justin is right about the after effects of the heart/lung machine. I had horrible hot flashes, nightmares, and trouble with my vision. Keep us posted on how...

I would think it was better to have a room that vents to the outside rather than circulating the same air as the rest of the hospital.

I sustained a signifigant tear of my left rotator cuff with my first OHS. I had to have surgery on it 6 months after my OHS. From what I understand, neck and shoulder problems are common after OHS from spreading the mediastinum during surgery. I am getting ready to face round 2 (ascending...

Thanks big L, I just ordered the book and my kindle, surgery date 09/12/13.

Shellbell, I had my St. Jude's mechanical valve put in 7 years ago. I have had absolutely no problems with the coumadin, haven't notice any sun sensitivity at all. Like tom said, self testing makes being away from home easy. You just take your kit with you and do it yourself. Just a little...

Great idea, I'll do it!

Heather thanks for your great post. The hair is important, I have a hair appointment scheduled for the saturday before my surgery!

Good luck stopper, sending you positive vibes!