Open heart surgery and post op with bronchiectasis?

Posted by drewinsac @drewinsac, 5 days ago

Not sure if my first one posted. Planning on getting open heart surgery and wondering if anyone has gone through it and what was recovery like especially with BE and having to do lung clearance. Any complications like pneumonia or other lung infections due to decreased ability to cough with some force? Any cardiac surgery experience is appreciated.

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coffcoff | @coffcoff | 4 days ago

I'm sorry you have to go through that. I've not had open heart surgery, though it was suggested to me for my aortic valve insufficiency. Instead I was able to get into a trial for a transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), though I had to pitch my case pretty strongly. I told the doctors that I had bronchiectasis and a current NTM infection , along with osteoporosis. I explained that I need to do deep breathing snd forceful coughing to get the mucus up. Anyway, I don't know how much that influenced their decision but in the end I didn't get the open heart surgery.

I'm wondering what condition you have that warrants the surgery? What did the surgeon say about recovery? Part of the reason I got a TAVR instead of open heart was my age (74). Open heart is still recommended for younger people who need valve replacements, since the valves they use for open hearts are permanent, whereas mine will have to be replaced in 10-15 years.

I've had no problems after a brief recovery of about 3 days and was able to resume AWC almost immediately. However, I don't use my percussion vest for fear of dislodging my new valve.

Please share more about your situation. Thanks!