Timing of elective surgery

I have a thoracic aortic aneurysm measuring 49 mm and a bi-cuspid heart valve with mild to moderate aortic regurgitation.  I am experiencing a reduction in my exercise tolerance and short periods of dizziness. I am 54 female and work full time at a stressful job that I enjoy.  I have coeliac disease which is under control. The diagnosis was made two years ago when a scan was carried out for unrelated reasons.  Since then I have been monitored.  Initially the aneurysm was 48mm and the regurgitation was mild.  I would prefer to plan the surgery now to take place in the next twelve moths as it is proving stressful for me to have it hanging over me.  I am taking low dose anti-depressants.  I have naturally low blood pressure and cannot take beta blockers as a result (I have tried).  My cardiologist is not prepared to book me in for surgery at the moment as the growth rate is so slow but he has told me I will need the surgery eventually.  I have had to put my work life on hold as I cannot move employers knowing that I would at some point need to take three moths or so off.  I have had extensive gyaenological surgery for prolapse in the past which did not go well and the prospect of further surgery is not easy for me.  however I would rather plan it and get on with it than keep on waiting.  What do you suggest?

Ros

[Gene918]

I faced the same decision last November. I had an ascending aortic aneurysm measuring 4.8 cm when I had an echo. Then the doc wanted me to have a chest CT scan, which is more accurate, and showed the size at 5.2 cm. I went ahead with the surgery to repair the aneurysm, and a repair of bicuspid aortic valve. The surgeon said that the actual size of the aneurysm was 5.8 cm - so it's hard to tell for sure until the operation. It's a tough call. Usually the surgeon will recommend surgery when the growth reaches 5.5 cm, especially in the chest. Hope all goes well.