Posted by Helena Broadbent on September 07, 2001 at 17:26:44:
In Reply to: Having the family around might be real nice posted by John Behle on September 07, 2001 at 16:29:00:
WOW - nice story.
Unfortunately, I will need to have 2 valve replacements. The only way I would submit to the maze is if I absolutely needed it. I've already had 2 open hearts to repair the mitral valve. The first one wasn't so bad but the next one left me wanting to end it all. My last surgery was nearly 10 years ago, well past the average of 6 years.
I'm scheduled for an echo October 2 although they wanted me in next week but unfortunately I'm out of town until the end of September. My last echo in January showed my posterior leaflet of the mitral valve was totally restricted. My cardiologist predicted I'd need that valve replaced within 2 years. He's never been keen on the maze procedure but I had already decided I would have it done anyway. But now, I'm experiencing blood clots in my eyes which puts me at great risk for stroke or heart attack. Now the maze is looking better and better.
I have always had a somewhat bad aortic valve that the Dr. said would not last me an entire lifetime. I am so incredibly despondent about having to face yet another open heart surgery that we discussed having the aortic valve replaced while the chance is there. I'm NOT going back in there!
Thanks to all for your support. I will keep everyone posted.
Helena