Mechanical Heart Valve

[MsHealthNut]

Hi everyone!! I was born with truncus arteriosus type 1 and I've had 4 open heart surgeries. My last open heart surgery was in 2005, I had two that year due to endocarditis. I had an aortic aneurysm and my aortic valve was replaced with a titanium st judes valve. Replaced again a few months later due to endocarditis.

I've been taking Coumadin and now warfarin for 18 years. I found out Sept 19 I am due for my 5th open heart surgery but this time it will be for my pulmonary valve that was replaced with a conduit donor valve. I will either have it replaced or ballooned out. January 8th I meet when a new doctor I've never seen before, adult congenital heart disease doctor.

Thank you!

[Donutuk]

You have been through a lot to say the least. At least someone is monitoring your condition. I wish you well.

[MsHealthNut in reply to Donutuk]

Thank you so much! I see the same cardiologist I've seen since I was an infant, and I'm very thankful for that! My mistake was not seeing a GP regularly, lots of missed things that could have been monitored having a congenital heart disease like I do.

[Donutuk in reply to MsHealthNut]

My condition Aoric Stenosis was only diagnosed after a heart attack. Also a bicuspid live tissue valve replacement when critical. Unfortunately our son , undiagnosed, passed away 4years ago but he had also a few unrelated conditions. These events make you appreciate just being alive! I wish you well.

[MsHealthNut in reply to Donutuk]

I'm so sorry to hear that. Heart breaking!!