Mitral Valve Replacement

[Alteris]

Hi,

I have an OHS for one of my mitral valve in October at Barts Hospital. Has anyone got his/her operation at Barts Hospital?

I have tremendous anxiety and fear for my operation. I have given only 50% chance to get it repaired so more likely it will be replacement the valve. My doctors suggested that I should consider a mechanical valve instead of tissue valve because of my age (I am 53 years old). I have much concerns about the side effects of blood thinners as I have been advised that I will be using them the rest of my life. Please share your experience if you have gone similar situation anywhere in the UK. Thank you and I appreciate any suggestions you may have for me

[Gav_UK]

Hi there. I'm 33 and had my mitral valve repaired four months ago. I was also told that it was quite likely that they'd have to replace my valve rather than repair it but that they wouldn't know until they got a look at me in surgery. In the end they managed to repair the valve and I was told that I might have to have it replaced in 10-15 years. I was put on blood thinner for three months so am now off it but I was prescribed lanoxin to help my heart beat more regularly. I'm on the lanoxin for life. To be honest I wouldn't worry too much about having to take medication. Most people at some point in their lives have to start taking medicine for something. As for the blood thinner - I didn't find it too disconcerting. They play around with you dose when you start taking it so that they can find the dose that works for you. A nurse told me that I had to avoid a whole bunch of foods which counter the affects of blood thinner (I was on warfarin) but my surgeon said to eat what I like and that they would adjust the dose accordingly. It's completely understandable that you're feeling anxious about the operation - I was exactly the same. You'll be fine and it will pass quickly. Trust you'll feel so much better afterwards!! Hang in there

[Alteris in reply to Gav_UK]

Hi, many thanks for your informative message. I am happy to hear that they repaired your valve rather than replaced it. Did you have an OHS? Where did you get it done? Did you really need a recline chair (I haven’t got one)? All the best

[Gav_UK in reply to Alteris]

Yep - it was open heart surgery. I didn't have any kind of special equipment. I was in the ICU for two days after the surgery and then moved to a regular room with a regular hospital bed. I had a wedge of cushions when i slept so that I was semi up-right as it was a bit too uncomfortable to sit lying flat. I live out in Laos where health care is very basic so I went to private hospital Bangkok

[Alteris in reply to Gav_UK]

Hi, I am planning to get a recliner chair because of the discomfort you have expressed. Are you back to your normal life ?

[Gav_UK in reply to Alteris]

I wouldn’t say completely back to normal life - still avoid lifting things which are too heavy and I used to run before my op but haven’t returned to running yet - I power walk instead. The whole experience takes a mental toll too understandably so it’s more that, personally, which is taking more time for me to get past. As people on the forum say - it’s best to take one day at a time

[Alteris in reply to Gav_UK]

It’s very nice to hear your positive feedback regarding OHS. You have been very helpful and inspirational. Hope my surgery goes well and heal faster like yours🙏

[LadyPumpkinseed]

Hi Alteris, I'm new here, joined today. I'm meeting my surgeon at Barts in early October re severe mitral regurgitation. I'm trying to stay positive and think how much better my energy levels will be once I have surgery, but of course it's daunting isn't it?! (I'm 61) Finding comfort and resilience through reading these posts and being part of a supportive and thriving community. Good luck!

[Alteris in reply to LadyPumpkinseed]

Hi LadyPumjinseed,I am sorry to hear that you have exactly same situation I have. I know it is hard but we can get through this with families and friends support. Keep your chin up and be strong 💪 you can do this. There are some Facebook groups which you can join and talk to people regarding their experiences but bear in mind that we all different and we have different responds to surgeries. Good luck 🤞

[LadyPumpkinseed]

Agreed, thanks for getting back.

[Alteris in reply to LadyPumpkinseed]

You are welcome, all the best😊