Post Op Clinic today

[Survivor1952]

I just wanted to update folks on my progress. I've been to Papworth this afternoon for clinic, my surgery was 9 1/2 weeks ago.

Whilst it was a bit of a production line process they did an ECG, Chest X-Ray and checked my Stats. Since I've been home , about 2 hours after leaving clinic, I've been asked to book a blood test.

My surgeon showed me my x-ray taken today compared to pre-op, my reaction was wow even before he explained what was on screen. My heart is back to normal size and working normally. He asked what drugs I'm on so I produced my A4 medicine 'card'. He has taken me off three of the regular drugs (Ticagrelor, Amiodarone and Lansoprazole) and recommended a review in two months of a fourth (Furosemide). That gets rid of one I really wanted to stop, Amiodarone, as I get the shakes at times as a side effect.

What has stunned me is that I have been discharged back to my GP for any further care and told I can resume normal life with no restrictions! What that means for me is I will continue with the dietary changes we have made since I left hospital, no return to debauchery though (as if it was a way of life before). So a bit more care over fats and salt and a reduction in alcohol consumption even though I was within NHS guidelines anyway.

So guys, for those of you thinking that AVR etc is life changing, it is but it doesn't mean you cannot enjoy life in the future.

[Yumz199725]

Wow this is such a positive post op appointment x I am still waiting for my valve replacement surgery so this is a very positive outcome x so glad you can resume your life as normal! ❤️ So amazing!

[Cee-Cee1]

It's so good to read your post, Survivor, and I'm really glad that you've had such good news - especially after having your surgery only 91/2 weeks ago! Whatever you're doing to avoid the debauchery 🤣 is obviously working well - here's to many more years of health & happiness 🍷🍾. Carol

[Sootyismycat]

you have recovered faster than I did. I was about 13 weeks. But I just felt better and better every couple of days. And utterly amazing at 13 weeks.

Another plus point. Recent change here in Essex…..follow ups take place at hospital but under the care of a nurse, not a cardiologist Consultant. So much less hassle. And the nurse can call the cardiologist if things aren’t good. And I can be booked as under the care of my GP.

What a radical improvement.

Well done NHS.

Sooty

[Yumz199725 in reply to Sootyismycat]

Oh that's a handy change I wasn't aware of that I live in Essex aswell 😅.

[Bingo88]

So pleased you are doing so well and can get back to enjoying life. Take care. Brian

[TriumphLover]

I’m on day 3 post op, great to hear success stories

[Faub]

Amen!! I 100% agree with your last sentence. AVR is life changing, and life can and should be enjoyed after recovery! All the best for your future!

[Qualipop]

EXcellent news. So pleased for you.