aortic root repair and palpitations

[MKR]

Dear Doctors

In June of last year I had an AVR followed by a follow-up surgery in December (aortic root repair) after an anuerysm was detected near the new mechanical valve. Since the 2nd surgery, I have been experiencing ongoing palpitations that involve strong and pounding heartbeats that pulsate in my chest (especially at night) and head. My cardiologist did a holter monitor test in February that showed no abnormality, and a recent echo showed no abnormalities. I am currently taking coumadin and toprol for HBP, which strangely became detected after the 1st surgery. I do not feel it is a functional problem (i.e. anxiety)and am wondering if it may be related to the dacron graft/root replacement. Has there been any research to show that the heartbeats following an aortic root repair and dacron graft are more pronounced and intense? I have heard that the dacron graft may actually echo the heartbeat, making it louder, more intense, with the feeling like the heart is pounding.

[CCF-M.D.-MJM]

Hello,

I am not familiar with any data to suggest this, but I will admit that i haven't come across this concern before.  I do not think you will find a definite answr to this questions.

I hope you are recovering well and thanks for posting.

[chrisr]

Yes, it is the combo of Valve and Dacron patch. I had this done 6 years ago in conjunction with triple bypass (all in one surgery)and I have heard every single beat from day one. Atenolol reduced sound considerably, thought I had it licked, but had to stop it since the Atenolol itself induced severe PVCs. Told to live with it. I also have middle ear hearing loss (use hearing aids) and the ENT doc mentioned that bone conduction and the proximity of a major artery to the middle ear would add to the annoyance. You do get used to it over time except when unfortunatrly you get irregular beats (PACs). It troubles me mostly at night and I have to use music distraction via headphones to fall asleep. Would be interesting to see the Doc's response as to whether there are any recent developments to ease our misery.
ChrisR.

[elcoil]

I had an ascending dissection with extension to my kidneys in 11/03. My arch was replaced and my aortic valve restrung. I remember the sound of my heartbeat in my chest and head for sometime after surgery. If I laid on my left side (I think it was left) it was definetely more pronounced, and would feel like it was shaking me. (hard to explain)  Either it has resolved over time or I have gotten used to it.