Aortic & Mitral Valve replacement surgery for Type 1 Diabetics.

[Dickydon]

Hi, I'm a type 1 diabetic had for 47yrs now 61. I also have a dual chamber Pacemaker.

On a P2 waiting list for the two valves to be replaced. Wondered are there any long term type 1 diabetics who've had this surgery and how it went and the recovery process and any tips to take on-board?

Also, did you choose mechanical, bovine or porcine valves?

Thanks in advance

Chris

[Heythrop51]

Hi Chris. One of the HeartStars MichaelJH has been diabetic for around 60 years. He hasn't been around for a while following a rework of his stump four weeks ago. I emailed him about your situation and he says he will get back to you at the weekend. He was back in hospital today and back again on Friday for related issues. MichaelJH is quite knowledgeable on bypasses, valve issues and diabetes. All the best, David

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

Hello Chris and welcome to the forum!

Apologies I have not been around for a while following a revision to my stump. Thank you to all those who sent their best wishes and I will reply separately in a few days as I am replying to Chris.

I have been Type I for most of my life and had a quadruple bypass in 2018. A year before an older friend had one valve replaced and two more repaired. They made an excellent recovery and now leave their younger partner behind. My recovery also went well till complications from PAD resulted in a BKA.

In getting ready for surgery keep as fit as you can and aim at an HbA1c below 8.0. As you cannot push up on your arms for months afterwards as the sternum heals work on your core strength - with the aim of standing up from a chair without using your arms. You may need a raised seat on the toilet if you have a low level suite. You also need to visit the dentist as you need your gums to be disease free and your teeth free from decay. Surgery an be refused at the last minute as infection can spread to the heart valves. Can I assume you have had an angiogram or other scan to check your cardiac arteries. I will touch on post-surgery another time.

As regards valves as a long term diabetic and considering your age I would go mechanical. Further surgery at 70+ or 89+ I feel is best avoided if possible. There are people here who have had a mechanical valve for 40+ years. One stabilised you can monitor your INR at home. As a long term Type I you should find this easy!

Any questions just ask...

Cheers, MichaelJH