Mitral Valve clip

[bowler]

As I'm not a good candidate for open heart surgery, my Cardio is talking about a mitral valve clip. Be nice to hear from anyone who has had this done

Thanks

[Ianc2]

Hi BowlerI had a clip , rather like a mini clothes peg fitted during open heart surgery for valve repairs. The surgeons seemed to think it was a good Idea but seemed a bit vague about the reasons why. I have read since that this appendage may have a role in managing blood pressure, but others say not. Did it make any difference? I really don't know and I can't find any research on it.

[bowler in reply to Ianc2]

Thank you for your reply, It appears I will have the procedure done through the groin, as it's less invasive A couple of years ago I had 3 stents done through the wrist, I have got to have another angiogram in a few weeks time, I assume to see how things are before they arrange to do the clip, I will have to ask more questions about it [ the clip ] then

[Highlandmist in reply to bowler]

Hi Bowler,

In August last year, I had a mitral valve repair carried out via key hole surgery (3 entry point, my groin, left rib and under left breast). I didn't get the clip, the surgeon repaired the leaflet and then fitted an annuloplasty ring to secure the leaflets to ensure they closed.

Apart from looking as though I'd been beaten up (:)) all went wonderfully well. When I think back on what they were doing, it amazes me how clever these guys are.

Good luck with your valve repair. Ask your surgeon all about the clip, they are just people at the end of the day and they want to ensure we feel confidence in them before going under any operation.

[bowler in reply to Highlandmist]

Thank you for your reply. It seems that they were reluctant to do anything with my mitral valve, so I just had 3 stents done, via the arm, that was in 2018. they said at that time , my mitral valve was too calcified to operate on, however after my recent angiogram, my Cardio has referred me back to Papworth my appointment is next week on the 7th. May so not long to wait, I will know more then if they will do anything, I'm 76 so not sure if my age comes into it,

[Highlandmist in reply to bowler]

When I was in the ward, I was with two lovely women waiting on triple bypass ops, one was 70 the other 79 and they're both doing wonderfully well.

Remember to go prepared with a note book and pen with your questions as it's easy to get distracted once the conversations start. Get all the answers you need - and don't worry about any questions being 'daft' when it's to do with our health, there are no daft questions.

Good luck

[bowler in reply to Highlandmist]

Thank you for your reply, very encouraging , I think I will make a list , as due to this virus my husband isn't allowed in with me, and 2 heads are better than one when trying to take it all in.

[Highlandmist in reply to bowler]

One if the ladies I told you about was in the same position as you, her husband couldn’t attend when the surgeons were talking through the procedures, however they did suggest a telephone conference so you could ask about this so your husband can be part of the process and support you 😊

[bowler in reply to Highlandmist]

I'm surprised I have the hospital appointment , as due to the virus all my past recent appointments have been via the phone, apart from my angiogram. I will ask about the phone conference .