Re: mitral valve

Posted By kate on September 27, 1998 at 13:26:13:

In Reply to: Re: mitral valve posted by CCF CARDIO MD - CRC on September 26, 1998 at 10:00:43:






Please help.  I am getting confused and need to know if my thinking  is on the right track.
Last spring I had an echo which showed severe mvr, mod tricuspid regurgitation, mild pulmonary hypertension, ef of 70%, was started on Vasotec  and referred to cardiologist#1 who told me I needed a new valve and soon --On second visitI was told that this was something I wanted to put off as long as I could as new advances were always being made in cardiac surgery and I was only at stage one of treatment, not yet on diuretics etc.  Would not give explanation for change of opinion.
Cardiologist #2 said the echo showed  possible ruptured chordae and because this is often repairable recommended surgery, also stating that elective surgery soon is better than emergency surgery later.
PCP is unconvinced that the risk of surgery is justified and I'm being referred to cardiologist #3
It is my understanding that often symptoms are not apparent until there is  left ventricular damage.  It is best to have surgery before this occurs. Other than this major problem, I am very active, feel great, and am in goo health.  My gut feeling is that I probably need a repair/replacement.
Hhow does a  person evaluate a cardiologist?  Repair or replacement, which is best if that is an option?  



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Dear Kate
Thank you for your question.  The timing of mitral valve surgery is not black and white and this is why you have not received several opinions.  The bottom line is that you will probably eventually need surgery.  IF you do have a rupture cordae then sooner is probably better.  Repair is almost always better than replacement.  
If you would like to be evaluated at the Cleveland Clinic we do a high volume of mitral valve repair and Dr. Cosgrove is the best in the world with this particular surgery.  To be seen here call the number below and ask to make an appointment with a cardiologist to be evaluated for surgery.  Hope this helps.  Feel free to write back with any additional questions.

Information provided here is for general educational purposes only. Only your doctor can provide specific diagnoses and treatments. If you would like to be seen at the Cleveland Clinic, please Call 1 - 800 - CCF - CARE for an appointment at Desk F15 with a cardiologist