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There is some variance in results. I was told the CT is the most accurate. My measurements were: Eco - 4.3 cm - original cardiologist didn't know what was causing it, told me to lose 30 pounds and come back in 6 months. MRA - 4.5 cm CT - 5.1 cm - Surgeon suggested that he operate within 6...

Hi. I have a scar on my back from a coarc repair in '84. It was originally supposed to run across my side but my surgeon ended up slicing me just under along my shoulder blade and it healed perfectly and can hardly be seen. I have only met one other person who has this same scar -- now two! I...

Hi Michela, I understand what you are going through and had that same dilemma last year. My BV had a minor leak so I opted to do a valve-sparing ascending aorta and arch replacement in the event that I want to get pregnant and not worry about being on blood thinners. I figured that if I went...

Glad you are moving in the slow lane. I would be concerned about the aneurysm size. Mine measured 4.5cm on an echo, but was really 5.1cm per a CT scan. I was told that the CT scan measurements are more accurate and my surgeon advised to have surgery within 6 months of the results. I know there...

Sending prayers and healing thoughts!!

Congratulations! You are on your way to a strong recovery! I experienced everything you are experiencing in my early stages of recovery. The blurred/double vision for me lasted for the first 8 weeks. It would sometimes happen while I was alone, out shopping which freaked me out the first time...

My aneurysm measured 5.1 and I was advised to get it replaced within 6 months as there are too many variables and no data to determine the point at which it could rupture/dissect. I ceased my physical activity and opted for surgery in 2 months as the timing fit best into my schedule. Definitely...

Hi, The day before surgery I realized that the operation was going to be the EASY part for me and the recovery was going to be the tough part. However, I was very nervous about "going under" and did not want any visuals beforehand of the OR or place myself on the operating table. The...

My aortic aneurysm measured 5.1cm and I was advised that I should have surgery within 6 months since there is no way to tell at which point would rupture. My cardiologist sent my records to Stanford to consult with another Cardiologist and get another opinion. I ended up selecting Dr. Craig...

Congratulations! Glad to hear the good news and wishing you a speedy recovery!

Hi Janie, I experienced the same thing! I used to do a daily Starbucks latte runs and since my surgery, I cannot stomach them. I even had my assistant lined up to bring me my lattes in the hospital everyday but was not interested. At about 6 weeks, I substituted my fix with their green tea...

I started using these types of scar products once my scar completely healed. For me it was about 8 weeks. I was lucky and did not keloid but wanted my scar to blend in sooner. I've been using Bio Oil and also Preparation H (suggested by my surgeon's nurse). They have both been working well! I...

Mine didn't. I don't think I would have liked that discussion the night before - too nervous. However, the morning of I was freaking out that I wasn't going to be able to talk to my surgeon and get his reassurance before the procedure. It had been 2 months since I had last spoke with him and it...

Welcome! I had the same surgery as you and it does get better! With my "Type A" personality I had to learn and was constantly reminded by my cardio to be a "patient patient". I had to remove any expectations and take it as it comes, which was a challenge for me. I started to feel better at weeks...

Congratulations! Milestones are wonderful -- they mean progress!

I was in a similar situation... 35 yr old female, wanting kids, BAV, 5.1 Aneurysm, root fine and slight leak of BAV. I opted for a valve sparring aorta and arch replacement. Before surgery, the surgeon thought my valve would last 10 years. After my surgery, my surgeon said that my valve was in...

I am a 35 yr old female that had an aneurysm measuring 5.1cm. In Feb, I opted to go the valve sparing route for my ascending and arch replacement. Overall,the valve was in good shape. The root was measuring normal and the BAV had only a slight leak. I want to have kids in the future so that...

Congratulations on scheduling your surgery with Dr. Miller. He did my valve and root sparring ascending aorta and arch replacement in Feb. My BAV had a very minor leak but was not in need of replacement at that time. I am 35 years old and did not want to be on blood thinners as I am looking to...

Mine was diagnosed at 5.1 in Oct 2008. I scheduled surgery for Feb 2009 and chose to cease my physical activity. My Dr advised me to avoid strenuous activity but I decided to limit all activity. Better safe than sorry!

I was freaked out about the vent tube pre-op. My surgeon said he would do his best to remove it before I woke, which put me slightly at ease. When I woke up I noticed the tube was still in since I couldn't speak. I remained calm which was very easy since I was so drowsy. The next thing I...