Mended Hearts Open Forum

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  • 1.  Mary Sirianni

    Posted 03-21-2018 05:48

    Mary,

    I have had two open heart procedures, one in 2007 to correct a ascending aortic aneurysm and the second in 2017 to complete an aortic arch replacement. I have been visiting patients in-hospital at the  Morristown Medical Center since 2008. Many of your questions are very common and I would be glad to share my own experiences. You can contact me at fvfabry@gmail.com reach me at 973-879-5647.

    Best Regards,

    Vic

    Victor Fabry, President

    Mended Hearts of Morris County

    Morristown Medical Center

    Morristown, New Jersey

    Direct 973-879-5647
    fvfabry@gmail.com

     

     

     

     



  • 2.  RE: Mary Sirianni

    Posted 03-21-2018 06:28
    Good morning Mary,
    I can understand your fears of having surgery while raising young Children. I had my first aortic valve replacement in March of 1979 when my daughter was 2 months old and my son was 2 years old. Today they both have families with 2 children each and I enjoy time with my grand children when I see them.
    In total I have had 5 aortic valve replacements spread over the last 39 years, so I am familiar with the breathing tube.  My suggestion is to relax and go with the flow of the tube and allow it to breathe for you. It can be comfortable if you do not fight it.  Also, try not to tighten up when they remove the breathing tube.
    There is some discomfort when the drainage tubes are removed, but it is over quickly.
    As far as your anxiety, try to focus beyond your surgery date, instead of what you may or may not experience. Pick up some books or magazines you would like to read and set them aside for after your surgery. It takes a while to build up your strength, so think about and plan possible light excercise routines you can do at home after your surgery. April can be windy, so if you go for walks outside remember to start your walk against the wind so that you have if against your back when you come home. Stock up on healthy foods you may like. If you are old school like me, buy a couple of DVDs of movies you would like to see and set them aside. The idea is to look beyond your surgery and prepare for when you come home. 
    I too worried about being around to raise my children, and now my son is 41  and my daughter is 39. I still work full time but will retire when I turn 65 in December. I am not physically limited in any way. After surgery you will be weak, but once you build your strength, you should feel better and stronger than you have for years. 
    Best of luck to you Mary,
    Phil











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    Phil Bowen
    Columbus OH
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    Original Message


  • 3.  RE: Mary Sirianni

    Posted 03-22-2018 20:01
    Hi Mary -
    Been reading your postings on your upcoming procedure.
    Normal - normal N-O-R-M-A-L to have the thoughts that you are having!
    What kind of normal person wouldn't be apprehensive ?
    I had a CABG and Mitral Valve repair 8/4/09 and a new Mitral Valve 2/8/17.
    Isn't it wonderful that we have such skilled doctors and facilities?
    Don't worry about the drainage tubes.  Nurses are certainly skilled in the procedure(s)
    and if you asked they can not count how many tubes they have removed.
    I was lucky and don't remember the removal of the breathing tube.
    The drainage tubes (I had 4) were removed in the recovery room.
    Just be thankful they can come out as the surgery was good and your body is healing.
    Keep a positive attitude and faith in the skilled folks in the hospital!
    and go get your hair done, nails & toes - take real good care of yourself before surgery.
    Did the doctor have you get a dental check up as a prerequisite for the surgery?  Good idea.
    I've been a member of Mended Hearts for 10 years and really didn't know anyone
    who had heart surgery before my first and MH have been a great source for support.
    I've been a visitor for many years and I think I get more out of visiting than the person being visited.
    Be glad to help with any questions.
    p.s.  You'll just love your first shower after it's all over!!!

    Judy Rose





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    Judy Rose
    Brewster MA
    (508) 240-7984
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    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: Mary Sirianni

    Posted 03-25-2018 11:51
    Judy - thanks for your great advice to Mary (hair, nails,etc.) that went with my advice to arrange for your family - since it makes the patient feel the most relaxed to know that everything is organized.

    This is a great forum when it works like this- Good Luck Mary!

    John from CA

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    John Constantine
    Piedmont CA
    (510) 653-4833
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    Original Message