UPDATE on my previous post regarding Aneurysm

[luv2read]

I posted a few months back about my cardiologist finding 2 aneurysms on my yearly CT scan. He sent me to a Cardio/Thoracic surgeon for a second opinion and more testing.

At my preop appointment today for my open heart surgery scheduled at the end of this month, they found that neither aneurysms had changed in size. Since the bigger one measured at 4.7-4.8, not quite the size they usually do surgery, but due to the hereditary issue and my GCA, they were willing to do surgery. When I went to my first appointment, I just wanted it out. Yes, do the surgery!!!

Since I have lived with knowing this for several months, my thinking has changed. I spoke with the doctor at length and decided to put the surgery on hold and monitor this every 3

months. He spoke to me about how it could stay this size for years and not change and that we now know that at least I have this, so we keep a close eye on it. I am over the moon that I don’t NEED to do the surgery right now. He was so good about answering all my questions and putting me at ease about this decision. He told me he never would have let me walk out of his office if he thought I was making the wrong decision!

So, I just wanted to let you all know and thank you again for all of your support and kind words!

[123-go]

Good news, luv2read! Your doctor is a gem and has taken time to listen to you and has treated you as an individual -not a number. Best wishes 💐.

[random901]

So glad you're being monitored carefully. Recovery from my thoracic surgery reinforcing my aorta was slow. Wish they'd diagnosed GCA before the aneurism, though! All the very best!🌷

[PMRpro Ambassador]

What matters is that you are being monitored and you are happy about your decision. And that you have confidence in your team.

[Numptybrain]

So pleased you’re being monitored, with luck they may not grow at all. I am high risk for surgery so I know how you feel about I bet it was such a relief.

Take care

Wendy xx

[Meatloaffan]

I just want to wish you luck. Always listen to your body but make sure they do actually carry out the imaging and bloods etc at the regular intervals. I had an aneurysm but it was a AAA not related to my heart. Also if at anytime you disagree with the doctors over treatment go with your gut feeling and if necessary request a second opinion. You know you're body and how you feel better than any doctor's or what they believe so always advocate for yourself if you feel something is wrong and if necessary get your partner or family member or friend to be with you. It's often very difficult to remember half the stuff the doctors say especially when you're the patient (or record if necessary). Effectively what I'm trying to say is try to get as much support as possible because at present I imagine you're going through a lot of worrying, apprehensive and possibly your mind could be overwhelmed. Take care of yourself and I will be praying (I hope that's not offensive to you) for you that everything works out for you. Best Wishes

[luv2read]

You are very kind. No offense taken. For you to take the time to respond means the world to me!