Surgery

[sandra kimmel]

I know that major surgery is major surgery, but is bypass surgery technically more demanding and also physically more complicated for the patient than valve replacement surgery?

It seems that I'm hearing of more possible complications from valve replacement surgery than bypass surgery.  My friend, who is 43, had triple bypass surgery recently, due to a very serious blockage that the cardiologist said was to the point of causing a massive heart attack from which he would not have recovered, and it seems like when the surgery is done to correct the problem, there's is not much more to worry about after that.  He doesn't have to worry about regulating coumidin, infections on the new valve, leakage of the new valve, antibiotics before any dental or surgical procedure, etc.  He just has to go home and take a baby aspirin a day. Are his chances better than mine (aortic insufficiency - mod. to severe) of living a long life with fewer complications.  

I know this is hard to speculate and probably sounds like a stupid question, but I was just wondering which is the more serious condition as far as the surgery and long-term survival.

I'm grateful that he was diagnosed with this before something horrible happened.  But I haven't had my surgery yet and even after I do, his future appears rosier than mine.    

Thanks for the information.

[Cleveland Clinic, MD]

I would say they are about the same.  The risk of death or a serious adverse event such as stroke is about 1-2% nationwide for both valve and bypass surgery.  At the clinic the rate is a bit lower at 0.5% for first time surgery.

[SandyT.]

Hi Sandy,
I'm glad to hear that your friend will be o.k. There is no such thing as a stupid question especialy when it concerns your health and quality of life. The doctors who respond to this forum are great and really do care. I know that they will give the best advise possible. Hang in there. I will say a prayer for both you and your friend. Good luck and best wishes.
                                          Sandy T.

[Cleveland Clinic, MD]

Thanks for your comments.