Problems following surgery

  On November 5, 1998, I underwent surgery for an asending thoracic aneruysm repair with a mechanical valve replacement.  The valve and the graft material were a one piece unit which extended to the mid-line of the aortic arch.  Since the surgery I have had a very pronounced thumping/pounding in my upper chest whenever I inhale more than half my normal capacity.  My cardiologist said he doesn't know what is causing this and a CT scan shows nothing unusual.  I currently take Digoxin, Tenormin and Coumadin.  I am a 50 year old male and for the exception of this thumping, I feel fine.  I spoke with my surgeon who suggested the clicking of the valve might be causing an echo and hence a vibration.
  I spoke with several people who have had the same surgery but none have had this complaint.  This thumping is so pronounced that when people place their hand on my lower throat they usually pull away in shock. When I take shallow breaths I don't have this problem.  The more I inhale, the greater my problem. Are there others with this same complaint or should I be considering a new surgeon.
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Dear Charles
Thank you for your question.  I haven't really heard of that problem before.  It sounds like your surgeons explanation is as good as any.  Anyone else out there have any ideas?????
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