MITRAL VALVE REPLACEMENT

[Randy]

I have just recently recieved a prostitic heart valve to replace

my natural Mitral valve. Since the operation Ive been directed to take Coumadin to thin my blood.(INR target 3.5) Also I have been prescribed Atenonol, Lanoxin, and, lisinopril. I am being told that the wall of my heart has gotten lazy over the years and now that the valve is working normal its putting a strain on my heart.This is normal through my research for people who wait to long to have the operation. I am 31 years old and was diagnosed with Mitral valve Prolapse around 9 years ago. Then it was a mild to medium regurgitation.I was not aware of my condition until I went to a Medical expert and inquired of my palvitations and upon listening to my heat with a stetascope he told me exactly what it was. Is this undetectable at this stage? I have went to numerous medicals pior to this and nothing was detected. Could this be a result of a viral infection when I was younger? Since the operation I have had some blurred vision episodes up to a couple times a week. Is this related to low blood pressure maybe? They implanted a St. Judes valve,I know they last a while. If I were to look after myself is there a possibility I could elude a second operation before my time? Will I need a second operation 20-30 years down the road?

[CCF CARDIO MD JMF]

Dear Randy,



i would discuss this with your internist.  This may be a symptom of low blood pressure or may be secondary to your valve and coumadin.  As far as a second operation it is the norma that hese valves need to be replaced every 15 to 20 years.