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Aortic and Mitral Valve replacement together?
I am 74. I was diagnosed in August with severe aortic stenosis, regurgitation and calicfication AND severe mitral valve stenosis, regurgitation and calicfication, plus they want to do a aorta bypass even though it is only 60%. Can only be done open heart from the initial conversation. I started having symptoms in August 2025. The day of all the testing they wanted to do the surgery ASAP which originally I agreed. Then that night I thought about it, did some research and decided I was not ready for it. Baffles me that it was so important to do ASAP until I put the brakes on to catch my breath. Now here I sit waiting for the appointment the 14th.
In the meantime I have done a lot of research, watched a lot of videos and have a better understanding of what is going on. Until I get the date and find out what they will do - a TAVR aka just the aortic valve or open heart since the mitral is so bad can only be done that way - I have planned as much as I can. I did find with both the aortic and mitral in such severe condition, surgery needs to be done sooner rather than later. I have read some online that doing 2-3 procedures at the same time is not wise but I want it done.
I live alone, have no one to help, live in an RV which was not in a condition to be left the day before to sit for a few weeks. They did tell me because I live alone I would go to rehab after I left the hospital, which is fine.
After I hear them out on the 14th, I may seek out a second opinion if I am not feeling good about them. This will be in Phoenix which is 150 miles from me.
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@annaworley05 can be very serious. It is also known as an aortic dissection which is what Lindsey Graham, Robin Williams and other well known have died from. I hope you are seeing the doctor about it. Let us know what is going on with you.
Hi I thought Robin Williams died from suicide.
@joyster15 He did because he was diagnosed with LBD. But some said he had also been diagnosed with aortic dissection. doesn't really matter just that is can be dangerous if not treated is what is important.
@charlotteeb Great. Hope Adam can help with referrals of interventional cardiologist in your area. Did he recommend someone?
@joyster15 I just received an email from him. He recommended someone at the Mayo Clinic. I will see what my doctors say on the 14th then contact them for a second opinion especially if I don't feel confident.
Hi, that sounds like a very good plan. I trust Adam’s judgment. He really cares about people like you and me who have heart valve issues.
@jlharsh I guess until I find out I won't know what to take. Example: clothing? supplements and Rx? phone? kindle? books? slippers?
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1 Reaction@charlotteeb Hi, in response to your question about what to bring to the rehab facility. I would bring pajamas or nightgowns, comfortable pull on pants, large tee shirts( if you’re having open heart surgery you would want to wear an oversized tee shirt so you will be comfortable. If you don’t have any tees buy some inexpensive ones at Target. Your facility will have a laundry, so you don’t have to bring a lot, but I would pack enough clothes for a week. Definitely bring your Kindle. Your room will have a TV but you might want to read. As far as medications, I would bring them. If you have a walker, maybe bring that too. Although most rehab places have walkers, canes. Check with the facility beforehand to see if you will need your walker. Anything that will make you comfortable I would bring with you. All the best!
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