TOE echocardiogram

[wpw62]

After two major operations in less then 18 months, kidney blockage and lung cancer lobe removal, I said never again. I’m done. Had my quota. Remind me never to say never again. Saw a cardiologist at Papworth Hospital yesterday about the mitral valve regurgitation problem they discovered during tests prior to my lung surgery. I have two valves with moderate to severe function apparently and I am being referred to a specialist there for further investigation. Will probably need a TOE echocardiogram and possible repair or replacement surgery. My only symptoms I can feel are slight AF occasionally but he said this will get worse.

Can anyone here reassure me about either the procedure or the surgery. I have a strong reflux reaction to anything placed in my mouth and gag at the dentist.

I am a positive person and will cope with this.

Thanks in advance

Cathy

[CDreamer]

I would imagine they will do TOE under sedation - mention that you have a strong gag reflex (I have a good body hack for that when at dentist) and acid reflux. I’m sorry but I cant reassure you re acid reflux as many people experience this after TOE, but it is a temporary symptom for most of us. I certainly have had several TOE’s prior to ablations and don’t remember anything about either but I was left with a sore throat and a dry cough which took a long time to go away - but it is an essential procedure to check that there are no blood clots around your heart, prior to the surgery.

It sounds as though the mitral valve surgery is really important and I remember a doctor once saying - just because you feel ill doesn’t mean you are but also just because you feel well doesn’t mean that you are.

It’s hard to accept yet further procedures after so many but you also have to think about the alternatives.

Very best wishes CD

[wpw62 in reply to CDreamer]

Thanks CDreamer. Didn’t know about the acid reflux. Will have to research that. Hopefully I will get an appointment date soon. Will keep you posted on here.

[Hidden]

Cannot add anything to CD’s reply other than to wish you well.....positive attitudes reign!!....👍

[wpw62 in reply to Hidden]

Thanks Flapjack, I can’t be anything less than positive with all the procedures and operations I have had and I am still here enjoying my life and staying healthy x

[wpw62]

Thanks HappyJo, I will certainly go on this forum. Xx

[jedimasterlincoln]

I'm facing a prospect of a TOE during any further ablation (I've had 5) and I'm really not keen on the idea.... it'll be under a GA if I have it though.

[wpw62 in reply to jedimasterlincoln]

Good luck with your procedure jedimasterlincoln.