@divmercy Have you sought a second opinion? If a second doctor gave you similar advice it might make you more comfortable with your final decision.

Yes i have sought 2 nd opinion.
Same recommendation considering that im still 66 yrs old. If i were 80 they would not recommend valve replavement.

@divmercy, I'm pleased to hear that you did seek a second opinion and that the first opinion was confirmed. Keep in touch and let us know how your decision-making process is coming along.

Why not, @divmercy? I'm 81 and would pressure my medical team, my health insurance, Medicare, and myself to fix or replace the valve. Twenty more years of better health is worth it!

I certainly agree with that thought, @predictable. However, heart surgery, whether invasive or minimally invasive is a difficult decision. However, most people would agree that the benefits outweigh the risks. @divmercy Have you contacted the American Heart Association's patient website to see what others might be saying about this minimally invasive procedure? If not, please check it out. You might find encouragement from the experience of others.

@hopeful: will check out the website. Thanks.

Thank you!

@predictable Thank you for your words of encouragement

My stenosis. Is at a 5.5 hsaving trouble asking for 2 nd opinion, as to where do I turn?my primary?I get another echo in feb. then will need to make a decision, so what to do what to do?

Hi Carlyne, welcome to Connect. You can ask your primary care doctor for a referral for a second opinion. But you can also call the hospital of your preference to ask for a consult with a cardiologist. I'm tagging @cynaburst on this discussion. I think she will tell you to do your research. Find a specialist with a good reputation.

If you wish to seek a second opinion at one of Mayo Clinic's 3 campuses, call the phone number on this page http://mayocl.in/1mtmR63. You can self refer and do not need a doctor's referral.