Post-surgical depression

  I had an extrememly successful though not unstressful minimally invasive mitral valve reapir last week at CCF. Little information (other than reams of papers) was imparted to help the paitent with post-surgical drepression -- which sounds stupid because the results were SO successfuly. I am not speaking of "feeling blue?" -- I am talking of crushing depression -- no thoughts of harming oneself -- but how does one handle all the post- surgical "stuff" -- nightmares and snarling mood swings and shaking sweats when certain procedureal parts are remembered? It seems to be the complete anthesis of the so hoped for and achieved results that I even hesitated to ask. But my family and I are dumbfounded as to what to do. Please help.

[CCF Cardio MD - MTR]

_
Dear Maggie, thank you for your question. I'm glad to hear that your mitral valve repair
was successful but you are obviously affected by post-operative depression right now.
I don't know of any data reporting the incidence rates of post-operative depression but
it is a known phenomenon that fortunately tends to be short-lived.  What you describe
sounds like a reactive depression to the procedural parts of the surgery that certainly can
be frightening for many patients.  Anti-depressant medications like prozac or zoloft could
be tried and would probably only be needed for a month or two.  However, you should
see a psychiatrist for an evaluation to determine what the best form of treatment is.   Also,
the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center has a patient support group for people who have
undergone open heart surgery called Mended Hearts.  Try calling 1-800-CCF-CARE for their phone number.  I think it would be helpful for you to talk with other patients who have gone through open heart surgery who undoubtedly have had similar problems post-operatively as you have had.  With help from a psychiatrist and the Mended Hearts program, hopefully you can start feeling better and can reap the benefits from a successful mitral valve repair.  Good luck!
Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Specific diagnoses and therapies can only be provided by your physician.