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Thoracic aortic aneurysm: Anyone had surgery?

Aortic Aneurysms | Last Active: May 10 8:46am | Replies (249)
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@purpleturtle

I was diagnosed by accident with a thoracic aorta aneurysm in 2011. I had no symptoms but was sent to have an ultrasound because I was overweight and had high blood pressure. I had a St. Jude
mechanical heart valve and complete artery replacement. It was a difficult surgery and recovery but so far has been successful. The only downside is taking blood thinners for the rest of my life. I didn't realize that had it ruptured I would probably have died within 15 minutes. I believe they call it the widow maker.
I am now a member of the zipper club.
I still have frequent stress tests, ultrasounds ekg and blood tests.

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Replies to "I was diagnosed by accident with a thoracic aorta aneurysm in 2011. I had no symptoms..."
Teresa, Volunteer Mentor | @hopeful33250 | Jan 3, 2022

Hello @purpleturtle and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. I see that this is just your second post since joining Connect and I'm pleased that you posted information about your experience with thoracic aortic aneurysm.

I'm sure you are glad that it was discovered before it ruptured. It is good to know that your recovery, while difficult at first, is coming along. It is especially helpful when members like you post about rare conditions because it gives other members hope about their journey. I would like to invite you to conversations with others who are facing this type of aneurysm. It would be helpful for them to be able to post with someone who has been through the surgery.

Do you recall the size of the aneurysm when it was discovered? How long were you hospitalized after the surgery?

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vmuller | @vmuller | Apr 13, 2023

I'm interested in how you feel overall if some deficits have improved ie; lung, energy, cognitive,
weight ect. I am 72 and following ascending aortic aneurism some 15 yrs. Now Need valve with the repair @ 5.4 cm and cardiomegaly. I'm somewhat miffed that they didn't repair me earlier nor did they investigate cause ie infection genetics. My B/P was always good I'm on no meds other than what consider age related memory problems and shortness of breath on CPAP with some weakness I continue to work 3/5 d wk.

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