AVR resurgery

Hi all.  I had AVR in 1998.  I found out yesterday my aortic valve is calcifying and my aortic root is dilating, and will need another replacement.  I will be scheduled for a TEE and catherization in a month.  What is a TEE in all my years of aortic stenosis I've never had a TEE?  Also, I have a St. Jude mechanical valve now, can this be replaced with a prosthetic valve next time, hence no more coumadin.  I know I would need surgery again in 10-20 years, but if after only 6 years I need the mechanical valve replaced, I wouldn't have to be on coumadin.  One more, if my valve calcified already, will another calcify just as fast, if maybe there's something in my body that is causing this to happen quickly.

I know so many questions that are for my dr but wanted to hear from someone that has possibly gone thru this already.

thanks much,
deb

[CCF-M.D.-MJM]

Hi Deb,

TEEs are very safe and relatively painless (although I bet someone here may have had a bad experience).  Essentially it is the same as a transthoracic echo except the probe is passed down the esophagus instead.  It takes about 10 minutes and sedation is given.

A bioprosthetic valve can be used on a redo surgery.  You need to discuss the pro's/con's with  your doctor.  If you are older than 60-65 (I didn't see your age above), bioprosthetic valves are recommended to avoid coumadin.

It is hard to say why you valve calcified so quickly.  There may be a genetic component to it, but the answers aren't known yet.

I hope this helps answer your questions.  Good luck with your next surgery.

[pms_barbie]

A tee isnt much of a big deal.  The worst part is the nasty stuff they numb your throat with.  I wish you the best of luck hope everything comes out ok.

[Momto3]

I agree with pms_barbie, the stuff they numb you with is the worst.  Other than that, it was not bad at all.  First, the nurse put in the IV.  Next, I remember having to swallow some numbing medicine (GROSS!) and finally the spray...real numb by then.  Even thought it tastes gross, it is tolerable.  Then they started the IV meds and the next thing I knew, I was sitting up, EKG wires were off, and I was getting ready to head home.

Where are you having the TEE performed?  Good luck with the test and best of luck for great results!  Here's hoping if you must have that valve replaced, it will be with the type of valve you are hoping for.

Connie

[Carolina03]

ValveReplacement.com is a great community of people facing or who have faced valve replacement surgery! This is not a pitch for the site, just a recommendation.

Best,
Carolina

[passkey]

little deb,  I am 67 years old and must have avr.  What can you tell me that would be beneficial for my recovery?  Will I need home health care  after one week of surgery?  What is the length of time for total recovery?  If you can answer these questions for me I would be very appreciative.  Thank you passkey

[little deb]

Hi passkey - sorry i haven't responded sooner, i haven't been on the computer.  Your question is difficult to answer.  I was 39 yrs old when I had my first AVR.   I was feeling quite good after 2 wks.  I was still tired but that's why you have 6-8 wks of disability before returning to work.  I didn't drive for 4 wks.  My chest was quite sore for about 2 months and i didn't lift heavy objects like my young niece.  You'll probably be out of the hospital after 4-5 days and you will need assistance at home for probably a week after.  I started walking as soon as I could, but with my husband for support.  I did get quite winded on my first walk around the block and it's good to have someone to lean on.  Take it all slow and you will feel good in no time.

If I can help you with anything else, please email me at ***@****.

Good luck on your surgery,
little deb