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Ascending Aneurysm - Surgery Experience and Recovery/Risk
Aortic Aneurysms | Last Active: May 8 9:32pm | Replies (33)Comment receiving replies
My doc gave me a 30lb limit to lift and said the same, no lifting, pushing or anything that would make me strain. This shuts me down for living as I have all my life. I used to cut and split my own firewood. I used to do car restoration for income. There’s so much that I can’t do anymore and I don’t know why they have to wait until it’s a certain size to repair it. Would it not be better to do the surgery so I can be productive and before I get older and the body takes longer to heal? Every day is like playing Russian roulette. It’s amazing how often a person notices they hold their breath to do something when you are aware of it, just getting up out of bed or rolling over, or getting up out of a chair. I’ve lost a considerable amount of muscle mass, which I would think having the extra muscle would also be beneficial for recovery. I’m glad that your situation turned out like it did. Are you able to do the more strenuous things that you used to do before the aneurysm was a issue?
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@legacyrock, @charlanepj and all... I'm 77 years old. An ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm was diagnosed several years ago and is now checked annually. Last year it was holding at 4.9. I now have a descending thoracic aortic aneurysm just found with a CAT scan checking the Splenic aneurysm I've had for several years as well...it's tiny but can be a problem, so Mayo vascular surgery is keeping watch with an annual CAT scan. They also found a Schorl node in L1 and eating its way into L2. Goody...
Now, I have an appointment next Monday with Physical Medicine and Rehab for discussion, legitimate diagnosing and treatment options for the schorl node. It appears to be the cause of my severe lumbar pain that increased the last several months, post covid infection in November 2023. Since then, I'm semi-bedridden or in the recliner most days due to the pain with activity. Also having numbness in arms, legs, etc.
The new descending aneurysm will be addressed with someone at some time. It's only 3.2, not considered an issue at that size apparently. The 4.9 ascending aneurysm is a problem and I have no idea how it will be addressed. The thoracic surgeon told me last year, after I insisted on an answer, that with my health issues and overall condition with my age, open heart surgery is not an option and he's not sure there is another one available with my limitations.
I have several autoimmune illnesses that flare regularly. I'm currently taking Prednisone and Methotrexate for PMR and GCA that hit me following the November 2023 Covid! Along with a flare of Sarcoid. It's been a trip for sure and I'm now scheduled for Long Covid Clinic with Mayo in April, neuro consult and additional testing-EMG, bloodwork, x-ray, and more. We'll see what all this brings.
Also, I know Mayo is a leader in aneurysm repair so I'll be interested to learn is there are new procedures that might be available for folks like me, with multiple medical issues otherwise negating surgery. Any new laproscopic procedures? Vascular? Other?
If any of you know these answers, please share with us. One thing I love about the Connect sites is the new friends we make and the sharing of information. What a dream to have folks experiencing similar situations with whom to share!
Blessings, Elizabeth