Azzurro1999,
Hello! Just under 6 years ago, I was diagnosed with an ascending aortic aneurysm. I was 48 at the time. I was not aware that I had a problem until I just collapsed one day. I worked full time and was very active. I thought everything was fine! Little did I know....

This surgery is a very serious surgery. If you are happy with the surgeon at Regions, that’s great. I would highly recommend that anybody about to have surgery, especially such a complex surgery, should find the best doctor that their insurance will cover.

The surgery is definitely survivable, as per all the post surgery people conversing on this site. The recovery is painful but will gradually get better. You will be in ICU for several days before you are moved to another wing. The nurses will fuss over you (this is good). You’ll be turned from one side to another to prevent bed sores. Moving around in bed will really hurt. The doctor will want you up and sitting, then walking, within a couple days of surgery. You’ll be thinking “are they kidding me, I hurt” but you’ll do it anyway. While in ICU, you’ll be “eating” a lot of broth and drinking liquids. You will be amazed at the number of drainage tubes sticking out of your chest and abdomen post surgery. Dressing changes will be frequent. You’ll learn to love the catheter and bed pan ( ha ha). Sleeping may be a little challenging due to all people coming in and out, especially while in ICU: nurses, phlebotomists, doctors, janitors, nutritionist, heart monitor people, x ray technicians, physical therapists... to name a few.

You may want to consider bringing a few personal items for your comfort: ex. Phone, tablet, favorite toiletries, underwear, slippers.

Consider what type of help you will need at home as well as who will help you at home when you are finally released from the hospital. You won’t be doing a whole lot. Your sternum, heart, aorta and incisions need time to heal. No driving, no cleaning, no cooking, no lifting etc. You may need help showering. A shower stool was a big help.

It is a big surgery. I had two surgeries three months apart for this. Your situation sounds a little more straight forward than mine was. I had unforeseen complications. But here I am 6 years later.

I wish you all the best.

Natalie
So. California

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