Forthcoming Surgery

I am being prepared for Mitral valve repair or replacement in the new year, The surgeon is arranging tests to see if he needs to do any by pass surgery at the same time. Also he is going to close up some appendage in heart that could cause clots. What I originally thought was one operation now seems like possibly 3 at the same time. This is very worrying since I am 77 yr old. Has anyone else had all this done and does recovery take even longer. I am booked on a cruise for the following christmas ( 2023) Will I be able to go. ?

Worried

[Ageingfast]

I am well into my 70s and went in for a replacement valve.

There were three outpatient tests, so the surgeon could get an idea of what he would need to do.

Not until he opened me up could he be sure what was needed.

Recovery was good. About 14weeks and I was up and about. Add a few weeks to build strength and then I would be fit for a cruise.

Essential to have someone to care for three months. In my case poor wife was lumbered. But a big plus is that I got notably better every two days.

Regarding your cruise, the key factor will be the date the op takes place.

Good luck to you both

Sooty

[Paul101]

I was 72 when I had open heart surgery to fix the mitral valve, the aortic valve and another problem too. So three for the price of one. Just before the op I was reasonably fit (though failing) and relaxed. Recovery went reasonably well. 12 weeks before I was allowed to drive, and going up (very small) hills within the year. So like Blackcatsooty, I think a Christmas cruise depends on the date of the operation. Even so, make sure you do appropriate rehab - the op makes you far weaker than you might expect. AND if you are not allocated rehab by the hospital or NHS go all out to find some from somewhere. Take a lot of care and find ways of reducing any worry you have.

[Hidden]

Hello

I have not had all that done but look at it this way these surgeons are experts and if they did not feel you could cope with it they would not do it so they must be confident you can and therefore put your faith in them

About recovery I think no matter what we have done we are all different in how long it takes us to recover and that has nothing to do with age , but if you focus on that lovely Cruise which will do you so much good after going through this op I think you will be able to go on it and I look forward to hearing what a wonderful time you have

You can mention it to the Surgeon just to check but I have a feeling they will say yes you can x

[Hidden]

Thank you very much for your encouraging comments. I will try and keep positive and take on board the advice about rehab. It sounds as though it plays a major role in recovery. Can you give any further info about what is involved please. best wishes to all