Mended Hearts Open Forum

Thanks for your help,

Bruce

Hi Bruce,

I am an 87 year old woman. I had a porcine valve replacement almost 20 years ago and now needed a TAVR surgical procedure, due to stenosis that had set in. I had it done two days before this past Christmas, just over a week ago. It was, to me, more or less an uneventful procedure, considering what was being done. I was in the hospital overnight. My aftermath has been mostly pain free - mostly soreness at the entrance site in the groin (especially when sitting down) and some soreness in one arm, which is no longer there. I had a surgical follow-up appointment one week after the procedure. My dizziness has vastly improved, if not mostly disappeared, and I am pretty sure my shortness of breath has improved. However, I am not able to discern that very well, as I am on a somewhat temporary limitation of activity. I am hoping my fatigue will improve, as well, but being 87 years old I have had dwindling of energy for some time. However, today I did a fair amount of light household chores.  

A friend had a TAVR procedure about five years ago when he was in his early 90s. His was for an existing valve that need to be replaced. He did well with the procedure and did improve afterwards, but moved away shortly after the procedure, so I am not sure of the details of his recovery.  I do know although he now has other health problems that have nothing to do with his valve, that he is still alive. 

I hope this helps and wish your relative all the best.

JoAnn Giannini