Quad bypass and aortic valve replacement

[Rupertthedog]

Two years ago i had a quad bypass and mechanical aortic valve.Apart from seeing the specialist after 3 months and having regular blood tests for warferin i have not had any follow up checks from the hospital. Is this normal,because how do we know we are doing the right things to give the operations the best chance.I am a 66 yr old man.

[skid112 Heart Star]

Hi there, my CABG was last November, and yes aside from a follow up in December, I have had no follow up appointments either. Many appointments at the GP but nothing from the hospital. from what I gather others have yearly follow ups but it seems to be more hit and miss

[Hidden]

Hi there - we'd always recommend that you see your GP annually when you've had heart surgery for a general check up and a review of your medications, or sooner if you have any changes to your symptoms or they get worse. You wouldn't usually see your surgeon again unless you were referred back if your GP had some concerns or needed a more expert review.

Generally speaking, the same advice applies for most people who've had heart surgery - eating a healthy balanced diet, being physically active and keeping your cholesterol and blood pressure in check for example. Our booklet on heart surgery might help you to understand this a little more, and you can download or order a copy for free here: bhf.org.uk/publications/hea...

I hope this helps.

Take care,

Chris

[Rupertthedog in reply to Hidden]

Thanks Chris for your kind words

[pammartin in reply to Hidden]

How often should blood pressure and blood tests be done following heart attack and stents.? Should you request annually or more often?

[Hidden in reply to pammartin]

Hi Pam - unless you have any new or worsening symptoms annually should be fine for a checkup including bloods. If you’re being treated for high blood pressure it’s best to have it checked whenever you see your GP or practice nurse throughout the year, otherwise annually should be fine.

I hope this helps, Chris

[JJL15]

I would call your GP for them to follow this up, I had my Aortic valve replaced 5 yrs ago and I get echos, ecgs and follow up with consultant every 10-12months and now I'm pregnant I see them every 3 months. I most definitely think you should be seen since. Good luck

[Fredders]

After my AVR I had my six weekly check up with my surgeon and another six weeks later with my GP, and then have had yearly check ups with my heart consultant and echocardiogram ever since - my op was in 2011. Speak to your GP, hopefully they should be able to help.