AVR Replacement

[FreeSwan]

Had AVR replaced in 2006 with a mechanical valve. Have recently been informed that the mechanical valve is abnormally disfunctioning.

[DodgyTickerMum]

Oh no! So shocked to hear this. I realise your surgery was 18 years ago, but when I had my replacement mechanical mitral valve fitted last year - I was advised It would ‘last a lifetime’.

Did you become symptomatic again or was it just discovered during a routine echo? So very sorry you’re experiencing issues.

[FreeSwan in reply to DodgyTickerMum]

I don't want to to be negative but lasting a lifetime depends on how old you are when the valve is replaced. I was 52 when my aortic valve was replaced due to servere aortic stenosis. I was also told that I wouldn't life a long life. I have had echos every year and two years ago I was told that I had a mitral valve flail and one cordea had broken. So when the cardiologist told me the valve could be replaced I thought he meant the mitral valve.

When I received a copy of the letter sent to my GP he said the Aortic Valve was abnormally functioning and the velocities were out of normal range. I am still awaiting an Urgent appointment to see the Cardiologist.

But I am now 71 years old, had 18 years that I nearly didn't have. I don't want to go through that operation again.

[DodgyTickerMum in reply to FreeSwan]

So very sorry to hear this. Bless You. I do totally understand where you’re coming from re surgery. It certainly isn’t a walk in the park. However, we have a family member who had the same op as me (albeit in The States) and he sailed through it, had a much swifter recovery than I did and was 77 at the time - getting on for 30 years my senior! There are also lots of members on this forum who have had valve surgery later in life and are back to leading full lives.

Have you considered seeing a Cardiologist privately - if financially viable? If you find out whether the one you saw at your local hospital has a private clinic, they would be able to access your N.H.S notes and discuss your concerns - a lot sooner than waiting in a queue with 7.6 million others. Might help to put your mind at rest. I hope you get to see someone soon. Take care.

[PadThaiNoodles]

I have a friend who's on his third (though his first was back in the 1970s when I think they were still doing ball-valves rather than bi-leaflet). Have courage, and I wish you luck if they have to replace it.

[DodgyTickerMum in reply to PadThaiNoodles]

No way! Oh my goodness - I honestly don’t know that personally I could go through it all again. Before my surgery, I was reading the story of a patient on the B.H.F site, who had her mechanical valve surgery over 40 years ago. On that basis, mine should last until I reach my nineties - that was my thinking. 🤞🏻If it doesn’t - I’m going to want a refund! I certainly didn’t sign up to have this done more than once…! 🤦🏼‍♀️