← Return to Aortic valve replacement
DiscussionComment receiving replies
Replies to "Was told by my Dr at Cleveland Clinic that now that i am over 80 the..."
@cobweb
I think I have come to a very similar conclusion, although I'm "only" about 65 years old.
I had a massive dissection around 10 yrs ago. I was able to go about 5 months before having surgery, to allow the dissected aorta to stabilize somewhat. The recovery was not easy for me or my family. I was able to put off my next surgery for about 5 yrs. The second one went a bit smoother but the recovery was harder and longer because it was a bigger surgery. I'm thankful I was given an extra 10 yrs of life with my family, but at this point I couldn't say if I would go through a third surgery, if had to make the decision today.
I'm healthy enough to do most/many things my healthier peers can do. I do have some limitations but they are manageable.
However, the thought of another big surgery, or the prospect of a very quick resolution without all of the other likely, and potentially additional consequences, is becoming more appealing to me with each passing year. The difficulty is not just for me, but also for my loved ones. I'm starting to think that I'd like to be remembered as a somewhat vibrant soul that may have been taken a bit to early but lived life fully up to that final moment. I buried my 99 year old father several years ago. He was always bigger than life to me. But his last 2 years were heart-breaking in his decline. I prayed for God to take him because I knew that's what he wanted. I think I'd like to skip that part of my life. I guess I just wanted to say I appreciate your take on this very personal topic.
Thank you!
Yes. It is concerning. I have a huge list of in-network doctors that my insurance company gave me so maybe you could shop around.