David L
Well-known member
For 3 years I was monitored for a leaky aortic valve, and an ascending aorta aneurysm. When the aortic root reached 5.7 cm my cardio told me it was time for a change. He sent me to Stanford because of their work with Marfan patients, although I didn't have Marfans. Dr. R. Scott Mitchell installed a Medtronic Freestyle Porcine valve on August 5th of 2008. This valve consists of the native pig valve, ascending aorta and coronary artery stubs, all in one piece. It was a 7.5 hour operation!
I have not seen this valve mentioned on this forum, and was looking for a history as far as longevity on this valve. I just had my first 6 month echo, and all was fine with the valve. I still have an enlarged LA, but was told it will remodel in time. Due to this enlargement I have had 2 bouts of A-fib, but was brought back to sinus rhythm with Amiodarone----a drug I don't care for, but that's another story!
My question is are there any more Freestyle Medtronic valves out there, and any history on them would be appreciated!
I have not seen this valve mentioned on this forum, and was looking for a history as far as longevity on this valve. I just had my first 6 month echo, and all was fine with the valve. I still have an enlarged LA, but was told it will remodel in time. Due to this enlargement I have had 2 bouts of A-fib, but was brought back to sinus rhythm with Amiodarone----a drug I don't care for, but that's another story!
My question is are there any more Freestyle Medtronic valves out there, and any history on them would be appreciated!