Heart Surgery for ASD and SVC

[JoanneS89]

Hi all

After undergoing all manner of tests, ECG, Echo, MRI, my consultant has finally decided on a course of action, and I've just found out that to correct my ASD and Bilateral SVC I'm going to have to have open heart surgery. Has anyone got any stories of having the same/similar procedures being performed. At 36 this will be my first ever surgery, so I'm a little nervous about undergoing GA and the recovery.

Thanks

[PadThaiNoodles]

There is a woman on here that wrote a lovely blog about her experience with ASD closure. I think she was about the same age as you too, but my google skills don't seem to be up to locating it. Perhaps someone else can remember....

[PadThaiNoodles in reply to PadThaiNoodles]

Found it: healthunlocked.com/bhf/post...

(link to blog in the post)

[JoanneS89 in reply to PadThaiNoodles]

Thank you!

[Audi1955]

Hi Joanne I had my 1st ever surgery in march 2024 at age 69 so like you l hadn't a clue what to expect..l had open heart surgery to repair a mitral valve in Edinburgh royal hospital..l hadn't a clue about 1st couple day's after surgery but l was well looked after and they make sure your well covered with pain management to help you. It's feels like it's gonna take forever to recover in the early stages bit l was told after 6 months you will have day's you even forget you had major surgery..and it's true for me anyway after 6 months all the aches and pains were all gone!! And now a year past I'm like a new man looking forward to my 70s birthday a lot fitter than l was a year ago.. just remember you are very young and probably have a lot faster recovery..Good luck 😉

[Billett]

I had open heart surgery double by pass mitral valve repair and rotablation when you first have it done it is sore and it hurts to cough or sneeze and its a bit of a bind sleeping propped up but at your age the recovery should be good .I was back at work as a landscape gardener after about 14 weeks and sleeping normally at about 6 weeks i dont know whether you will be offered cardiac rehab but if you are take it its very good for mind and body and another piece oe advice listen to your body and early days take little steps good luck !!

[MousesMum]

It’s a scary time for anyone but you’ve come to the right place because the folk on here are incredibly wise, helpful and reassuring. I wish you every success with your op and a very speedy recovery.

[AH31]

Hi Joanne

I am 35 and had Open Heart Surgery last year. My advice would be as soon as they get you, up and moving, keep going.

I’m sure you will be fine and recover quickly, use a pillow across your chest when you cough or sneeze for awhile as it can hurt and sleep upright for a few weeks, I was able to sleep on my side after a month.

But please remember everyone is different and heal in their own time.

Best Wishes

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