alternatives to mitral valve replacement

[Old_Hippie]

I got the news that I needed a mitral valve replacement. Had a bunch of preliminary test done; heart cath, echo cardiogram, etc. Went to check into the hospital on Monday for surgery on Tuesday and surgeon said he can’t do it. Said he had overlooked my ejection fraction and it was to low. He put the survivability of the surgery at 50/50.

I’ve done a search for alternatives to this surgery and come up empty. As an “educated consumer” I need to read up on this.

Got any web links on alternatives mitral valve repair or replacement when the ejection fraction is to low?

[Momto3]

Is there any chance you can have your records transferred to the Cleveland Clinic (or Mayo) for a second opinion.  I'm wondering why the surgeon was not aware of your low EF ahead of time...Do you have a copy of your recent echocardiogram?  What was the surgeon's advice?  What is considered "too low?"

[suzzie1]

Have you tried asking the people on  valvereplacement.com ?  

Wonderful site, with tons of information and helpful people.

Best Wishes.

[Old_Hippie]

I have a follow up appointment with the surgeon this week. He did say last Monday he would "confer" with others. I also wanted to confer with others on the internet about any alternatives so when I see him this week I would have an idea what he may have.

I'm a veteran and this was at the VA in Asheville, NC. I paid for a doctor referral and he is highly rated as a Cardiothoracic Vascular Surgeon, rated 9 out of 10 and the report said "Above National Average - Cardiothoracic Surgeons" "Exceptionally Good - Thoracic Surgery". He was on the staff at West Virginia University School of Medicine as a Professor , Surgery before he came to the VA last year.

[Momto3]

Sounds as though you did your homework when looking for a good surgeon.  Hopefully, the surgeon will offer you better options once he confers with colleagues.  As tough as it is, it is best that he did not proceed without the utmost of confidence.  Here's to lots and lots of brighter days!

Old_Hippie??  As in Woodstock?  Am I dating myself?  hahahahaha....Enjoy the day! Best of luck with your follow up appointment.  Keep us posted.

[Old_Hippie]

My ejection fraction is 22.