What is the recovery like following septal myectomy?

Hello, Everyone!

My name is Steve. I am 52 years old. I was diagnosed with HCM in my twenties. I was asymptomatic until I was 39 when I experienced an episode of Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy in the early course of my divorce from my first wife. I was prescribed a small dose beta-blockers and enjoyed the relief I felt from them. My semi-annual tests were routinely the same for over a decade, so much so that I was certain the disease had stopped progressing. I could and did walk long distances, hike, swim and bicycle as long as the inclines were not too great.

2 years ago my numbers bumped up - the measured LVO gradient increased by 20mm each year, and I've experienced increasing symptoms of s.o.b. and angina in spite of increasing medication 3 fold. I have two separate cardiologists with two separate opinions. One of them referred me to Mayo Clinic and my case was accepted by Dr. Nishimura.

Two weeks ago, I traveled to Mayo Clinic in Rochester for 3 day evaluation. My diagnosis of HOCM was confirmed and I am an "excellent candidate for septal myectomy". I found the care at Mayo Clinic, every step of the way, to be exceptional. I have had the privilege of also being served well in California at Stanford Medical Clinic and Mayo Clinic is a full class beyond. The tests were comprehensive and only applied as necessary. The attention to detail was consistent and pervasive. Empathy and positive attitudes were the norm.

I am scheduled for septal myectomy at Mayo Clinic with Dr. Crestanello on August 14th. I have compiled a list of suggestions to improve outcome. This forum has been very helpful and I want to thank those who have shared their stories.

Everyday

Has anyone had migraines start about a week after surgery? Heart rate goes to 90 something, head throbs,headache and fatigue starts almost everything.

Back seat of the car is the best / safest place, if you were involved in an accident the air bags deploy.

Hi @sheim, @jtaylorl,

Welcome! You may notice that I moved your message and combined it with this existing discussion as I thought it would be beneficial for you to be introduced to fellow members who’ve shared their experiences after septal myectomy.

If you click on VIEW & REPLY in your email notification, you will see the whole discussion and can join in, meet, and participate with other members talking about their or their loved ones' experiences.

No driving for 4-6 weeks 😱

I would not expect to be able to drive but I wonder if i just ride

Hi. I had my myectomy a year ago. We flew to Minneapolis from Kansas City. We planned to drive back, but after surgery and staying nearby in the hotel for a couple of days, we decided it would be easier to drive back than to maneuver airport shuttles and wheelchairs. Also I was nervous about the bathroom issues on the airplane so fresh after surgery. All these were issues I hadn’t thought about before the surgery. So we rented a car and drove home. It worked great for me. Everyone is different, but for me it was much more comfortable and less nerve wracking. Best wishes to you!

Hi all..I just joined today. I'm scheduled for a Septal Myectomy in June. Our plan WAS to drive to Mayo from Idaho but a couple of friends have said it may not be suggested to drive home after the surgery. Nothing was said about transportation when Mayo called me. Anyone who's had this done, is driving a bad idea?

Welcome to Connect, @mk1957.

I’d like to introduce you to a few members who’ve shared their insights about this surgery; Please meet @carsangelop @rrowner2 @ronaldpetrovich @priscilla1972 @ronitb @knecht @PatMattos @ninimurphy @mbcube. You can also read their posts in these discussions on Connect:
– HCM CARE tips - What do you wish you had known for after surgery? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/hcm-care-tips-what-do-you-wish-you-had-known-for-after-surgery/
– Septal Myectomy & Mitral Valve Repair Surgery on Jan 30th https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/surgery-on-jan-30th/
– Surgery https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/surgery-2/

@mk1957, have you asked your care team at Mayo Clinic? What have they suggested?