L
Linda
I have learned so much by reading the wonderful messages that have been posted on this website and also through personal correspondence with others who have or had a mitral valve problem. I have mitral valve regurgitation and was told by my local cardiologist in Ft. Lauderdale that it would have to be watched closely with an echo every six months and I would eventually need surgery to repair the valve. I spoke to a surgeon/professor at Univ of Michigan who specializes in valve repair. After reviewing my echo tape from May01, he felt the mitral valve should be repaired soon before damage is done to my heart. He also told me that they tend to be more aggressive at the Univ of Michigan and will often recommend surgery 2 - 3 yrs before other heart centers. Based on the great reputation of the Cleveland Clinic, I decided to go there for an evaluation and will base my treatment decision on what they tell me. I have an appt. on Nov. 5th with Dr. Stewart. I think I have been thorough in preparing my list of questions but would really appreciate it if anyone can give me some suggestions on what I should be prepared to ask and know after seeing Dr. Stewart. I am looking forward to this evaluation at the CC and will be anxious to see what is recommended. It's difficult when one is given different recommendations knowing that the success of fixing the mitral valve is so very dependent upon the correct timing of the surgery . The only two diagnostic test my current cardiologist has done is an echo and a stress echo. I will take the copy of the echo tape and printed reports with me to the CC. Any additional information is most appreciated! Thanks for your help.