K
karlaosh
Hello!
This is my first post, though I've been reading throughout the forums for a month or so.
I have a bicuspid aortic valve that's decided to take a fairly sudden turn for the worse. Starting about a year ago, my left ventricle measurement (LVEDD) keeps getting bigger and bigger every time I have an echo. My cardiologist is telling me that this trajectory puts me on course for valve replacement within months.
SO, I'm looking into Cleveland, insurance, valve type, etc. This website has a wealth of information and opinions. Thanks for all the great discussions. But if anyone wants to put in their two cents, I do have a few specific questions:
1) I have a TEE scheduled in two weeks. The doctor tells me I'll be pretty doped up and that it's no big deal. True?
2) Did any of you go to Cleveland even though you had to pay a big chunk out-of-pocket? With my insurance, Cleveland Clinic is "out of network" and so I'll have to pay a healthy amount. Yet I'm feeling that for my peace of mind, it's probably worth it...
3) Did any of you opt for a pericardial valve at a young age? I'm 38.
So much to think about. Thanks in advance for any advice you can offer.
Karla
Fort Collins, Colorado
This is my first post, though I've been reading throughout the forums for a month or so.
I have a bicuspid aortic valve that's decided to take a fairly sudden turn for the worse. Starting about a year ago, my left ventricle measurement (LVEDD) keeps getting bigger and bigger every time I have an echo. My cardiologist is telling me that this trajectory puts me on course for valve replacement within months.
SO, I'm looking into Cleveland, insurance, valve type, etc. This website has a wealth of information and opinions. Thanks for all the great discussions. But if anyone wants to put in their two cents, I do have a few specific questions:
1) I have a TEE scheduled in two weeks. The doctor tells me I'll be pretty doped up and that it's no big deal. True?
2) Did any of you go to Cleveland even though you had to pay a big chunk out-of-pocket? With my insurance, Cleveland Clinic is "out of network" and so I'll have to pay a healthy amount. Yet I'm feeling that for my peace of mind, it's probably worth it...
3) Did any of you opt for a pericardial valve at a young age? I'm 38.
So much to think about. Thanks in advance for any advice you can offer.
Karla
Fort Collins, Colorado