1 Year After Aortic Valve Replacement Open Heart Surgery - Tips for new patients.

This is a very different type of video that I am used to do, but, to celebrate exactly 1 year after open heart surgery, I decided to make a video to help new patients or people related to new patients.
It was very hard for me to find a lot of information about the process and what I was going to have to deal with, so to help new patients I decided to make a video going through every important detail I could remember. Hopefully this video will help you.
I share how my process of swapping my natural aortic valve to a mechanical aortic valve went. Everything said in this video is based on personal experience only. You should ALWAYS consult a doctor if having any symptoms, problems or questions.
Some topics I cover in this video:
- Beginning of medical process, surgery, stay at the hospital, and after surgery preparation and care.
- Some differences between pig, cow, and mechanical heart valve.
- Dealing with anticoagulants and INR.
- Heart rehab program, exercises and limits.
- Returning to your regular activities and lifestyle.
- Tips on helping you to have the smoothest recovery time as possible.
Facebook groups about this topic:
Mine Ticks - / mineticks
Zipper Club: / zipperclubheartsurgery
OHS: Zipper Club: / 2256590992
Apps to help keeping track of your INR and med:
Medisafe: medisafe.com
MyINR: itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-in...
Medical Bracelet to tag your name and meds:
www.medicalert.ca/

[@baumansound]

Watch the 2nd year After here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYbGh4GHjMuaqs0

[@dariuszjanczewski2475]

Edward, thank you so much for this uplifting, informative, and well crafted video. Much appreciated! I am 61 and will be having my valve (organic) replaced, hopefully, within the next few weeks! Your video helped me to relax, and stop to think about the surgery constantly :-) Now, I am about to watch your second year installment. Thank you again and I am sending warm greetings from the south of the border. Cheers!

[@janetpajarito4250]

HI mister Edward thanks for the information. I was diagnosed a Reumatic heart deases 3 years ago. That was Jan,1 2017 and until now i still take a maintenance that i need to take. But my Doctor Say that i need to undergo with the surgery for replacement and repair my valve in my heart,,,but sad to say until now i still not do it. Because of money matter,.

[@ssk3369]

Sir I want to know some things for my future . I am 26 year old and I am suffering with mitral valve stenosis. Then doctors they told with me . You need to get open heart surgery . . But I am so scaring . For about after surgery life . Many people telling you need to take blood thinner tablet and every month review for your blood test . . Even now mentally I am dying . I have lot of dreams about future but this disease caused many impact in my life from childhood to till now . Sometime a thought may appear into my heart. Why you born in this world . Why lord allowed this disease to you . You're fit for nothing . You're wast of birth . You born for enjoy the sorrows and worries . It's all happening into my thoughts . Some time I tried for suicide . But my belief stoped myself . Please tell me is it easy or not to live after surgery . I loosing the hope . ...

[@tomolonotron]

@@ssk3369 Hi friend. I read your message. The surgery is major surgery which was very worrying for me. You will feel these dark thoughts, I was the same. You should ask you doctor to see if they have any psychological treatment. I have been diagnosed with depression and high anxiety and therapy has changed my mindset from dark thoughts to being grateful for the surgery, I am very happy now. I had my surgery 6 months ago and I already feel back to normal, if you are young and strong I wouldn't worry so much. The reason you are receiving a mechanical valve is because you will live a full life and you won't need further surgery when you get older. Stay strong friend and I hope you are well!

[@ssk3369]

@@tomolonotron thanks you for the advice . doctor told with me within one year I need to get valve replacement

[@cyberbruiser2515]

My aortic valve was replaced in 1984,a titanium valve, 36 yrs and still going strong...cheers

[@ajpello2003]

This is VERY encouraging I’m 34 and just got diagnosed with aortic regurgitation and am terrified with what seems like few options for us. What blood thinner do u take?

[@somervillearron]

@@ajpello2003 i take tinzaparin i bleed like hell when im cut,i had to go to hospital for a cut in my hand it bled so much a beach towel was saturated

[@somervillearron]

@@ajpello2003 not all the time though

[@flowerla1119]

How old we're you when you got the surgery

[@davidpearlactorteacherbizman]

How did you get used to it ? Ticking ?

[@texascowboy8612]

Seven weeks after Arotic valve replacement surgery I was walking 6 miles every morning. One year later I at 64 years old I walked the El Camino De Santiago in spain. Eight hundred fifty km. = 500 miles in 27 days averaged 30km for 25 days and two days 50 km. Total 27 days I never missed a day. ONX has a picture of me.and my documents hanging in their office in Austin Tx. Thank you ONX im almost 72 and still kicking.

[@soniapaiva7341]

Is the valve you have noisy ? Is it mechanical ?

[@GauravAgarwal]

Which valve? Mechanical or tissue?

[@cathyt144]

I had a mechanical aortic valve replacement at age 40. I was told it would add 10 yrsto my life. I am now 63 and my St Judes valve is still clicking away . I will be on Coumadin until the day it stops beating but im grateful to be alive . Dr Steven Cohen in Huntsville Al did my surgery after having congestive heart failure. I flatlined 2 times and in a coma for 2 weeks .it was a long healing process but with great Drs taking care of my recovery and my children,family and friends i am a survivor. ❤

[@baumansound]

Thinking on doing a 5 years video. There are many questions in the comments, so I might do hald as Q&A. So if you have any Qs, please drop them here =)

[@WildNaturebyElizabeth]

Hello Edward. I would love to see a 5 year update. My husband is going into the hospital on January 5th, 2023 for open heart surgery. The aortic valve is defective and without the surgery, he only has 6 months to live. Your video was very helpful for me as the caregiver. I hope you are well and you are an inspiration for me. Be well and thank you for sharing such a personal story. God bless you. ❤

[@jacobhuggins]

Do you see how post surgery and with the medication involved how going on international trips would be possible or impossible? I will be getting my surgery this summer, but am worried because my passion is teaching English abroad. I’m scared this will lock me down to the US forever. 😓

[@baumansound]

@@jacobhuggins buy a INR machine, and get used to what food keeps it stable! I travel all the time all over the world, zero issues!

[@anshuljain6542]

Yes, Please do a follow up video.

[@brnwltr]

Thanks for your video. I’m 5 days post surgery in Tasmania, Australia. I’m 66 and had a stenosed and calcified Aortic valve replaced with a mechanical one. Going home in two days. I’m not as feeble as I thought I might be but have lost my stamina so I can see how slow it will feel to get back to normal. Good luck to everyone who is to have this done; it’s over pretty quickly but keep in mind to protect your chest. A cough can get painful!........very good advice here.

[@davidpearlactorteacherbizman]

god bless

[@lindamoya3060]

Congratulations that your surgery was successful. I also had aortic valve replacement Without any bypasses or stints.I remember when the doctor was looking at my chest on one of my visit's before surgery he looked down at me and said I don't want to cut your chest open. And I said then don't so I was not cracked down the middle of my chest. I have incision site above my right breast. I feel like I recovered quicker. Because of the way the surgery was done . I Do have to take cumidin the rest of my life And that's okay. I want to shout out to all those that wrote to you that you eased their mind and made them more at ease about their own surgery. This looks like a much needed topic to talk about. Thankyou

[@orscrub3161]

i’m watching this as my husband is in the OR. i am a scrub nurse so i know what he’s going through. there is sooooo much more to this surgery than you expect!! it’s your tips AFTER you get home is what i was looking for. thank you so much!

[@robduffy9879]

Thanks for posting I had my AVR in October of 2020. I watched both your videos and they were helpful hearing from someone who went thru it. Many of the points you explained were spot on , and relatable. I decided on the bovine valve, i did not want to be on the meds or hear the clicking as well. So far so good. I am in cardiac rehab and getting stronger every day. thank you for being so generous and open about your experience because it did help immensely. Cheers!!

[@JonnieFuzz]

That was great Ed! Thanks for sharing your experience. I’m also glad you killing it in sound :)

[@wesb211]

Thank you. My surgery is tomorrow

[@basengelblik5199]

At first I thought ... 53 minutes ... But time goes fast when it is interesting and relevant. Thank you very much. This also helped explain it to my wife and Family a lot better.

[@wwaldok]

I'll be facing an aortic valve replacement sometime in the future, as my valve has mild to moderate stenosis. I'm 73.5 years old and would favor the mechanical valve like yours...but, I haven't talked to any cardio specialists, just my Internal Medicine physician, who pointed my condition out to me. Yor presentation is excellent and honest...thank you for that.

[@agadmator]

Awesome vid man. Having mine next month and this is the most info I found on what to expect after surgery by far. Hope everything is still well!

[@froller2]

did you have terrible anxiety pre surgery? i got my op end of jan and im so full of fear and find it dominating my life

[@acjohn6995]

How are you doing, Agadmator?

[@susie7345]

How are you feeling now I’ve got mine in 2 weeks

[@susie7345]

@@froller2 how are you feeling now ? I’m scared I have mine in 2weeks

[@froller2]

@@susie7345 I'm sorta well no pain or anything just a high pulse

[@stevethrewup]

Edward, thank you so much for making this video. I’m facing this surgery in 2 weeks and this vid has been most helpful and calming. Cheers and good health to you!

[@amberdelligatti9635]

Thank you for this video. My 14 year old son is getting his aortic valve replaced in 2 more days. Its so good to hear about what to expect!❤

[@elviejo2372]

Thank you for sharing your story.... I have just been diagnosed with aortic stenosis and you have given me much needed encouragement

[@llanbradach]

Thank you Edward for this video, I am 64 and on the verge of open heart surgery for a bicuspid aortic valve. I have been a bit nervous not knowing what is going to happen but watching your video has put my mind at rest. Thank you.

[@Henrique_Psi]

Congratulations!!! Happy 1 Year Aniversary !!!

[@sasap1156]

Thanks for sharing !!! I’m from Germany and thanks for your clear voice! I understood everything ☺️ stay healthy!

[@federicoflorezmonico7865]

Very helpful, thanks. I just had my surgery 30 days ago and my experience matched yours, thanks, very good advice.

[@janicewest9725]

thank you for the video! My valve replacement is in one week. I like your candidness about how it will be and that I just need to suck it up.

[@danielcotton238]

I'm going in for surgery in just over a week - this was very reassuring. Thanks!

[@brianpalmer3413]

I'm currently waiting myself. Your video has really helped lower my stress level. Thanks.

[@budmanzoom4441]

Thank you very much! I'll be going through this. Very informative and comprehensive.

[@gend8585]

Thanks dear, for taking out time to share this info..quite motivating and gives some assurance for sure. God Bless you!

[@annlesleysteyn]

Great video. Congratulations on your one year:)

[@zdenekhromek9910]

Hi, thanks a lot for your video and sharing experience. I am waiting for my surgery and your video helped me to calm down. thanks.

[@RaySuesTravelChannel]

Edward. Thanks for a straightforward, honest summary of your experience. I can absolutely relate your experiences to my own after Mitral valve repair. Those were my exact same experiences. However, the repair did not solve the problem, so I will repeat it all again with a valve replacement. Stay safe and healthy.

[@elainemcglynn9665]

Thank you so much, from London, you have really put my mind to rest 🙏

[@markda12]

This was that best thing for me to watch right now. I’m 63 and planning on having the replacement done early 2023. Comprehensive and informative. Put me at ease. Thank you so much for doing this. 😀

[@lesliefoldy2767]

Thanks so, so much for this very thorough and uplifting video! I have this surgery in my future. This really put my mind at ease. "Better living through science!"

[@BionicCyborg]

Solid video I had my operation in 1993. I have a tear in a aortic graft that was put in in 1993. I have a very serious issue along the lines of an aneurysm so I'll have surgery again in a month. I have a mechanical valve I forgot about some post surgery stuff. You can have a very normal life.....4 beers ...yeah reduce ...warfin when you have a beer. Great video and I have lived for a long time since the surgery

[@scotts5081]

The picture on here is my husband, I am a 58 yo female with aortic valve replacement scheduled for this Tuesday, Sept.25, 2018. I am not even halfway through your video and your words stopped me in my tracks. I thought I was crazy hearing my heartbeat in my head for so many months. I am sure you can imagine what a relief it is to know someone has the same symptoms. You have eased my mind, as much as it can be, and I thank you.

[@marlonbrando98mp]

I am sitting in HOSPITAL now waiting to do this surgery thank's for this info

[@jaccrazy21]

Marlon Pinnock Hope you are ok!! I had Aortic repair as well. Wishing you the best. Hugs

[@marlonbrando98mp]

Thanks Katie my surgery is in the morning

[@jaccrazy21]

Marlon Pinnock Oh my, I am so excited for you to hopefully gain feeling better. I will need to have a 2nd surgery on my Aorta. But stable for now .... I will be praying for you today n tonight. I am on pacific time. Please keep me posted. I understand that you will be sleepy for a few days. So take your time. You got this! God Bless!

[@marlonbrando98mp]

Thanks Katie what's your second surgery all about

[@jaccrazy21]

Marlon Pinnock I was born with Turners Syndrome. So I had a muscle wrapped around my Aorta that they fixed (did a video on that). I still have a bicuspid valve, narrow aorta, and left ventral septal defect hole. The Aorta has an dialation on it but no tear or rupture ... so on a wait and see a.t.m. Not sure how they plan to fix, just know I will be needing a fix again .... that is my long story. Hehe. How about you?

[@alebraga100]

Parabéns Eddie!!! Pela sua recuperação e pela atitude de gravar esse vídeo. Você é o cara. Grande Abraço. Braga

[@chaoticcomics0054]

I had the same surgery on 5/28/19. Starting the recovery process. No pain but feel so zapped of energy. I can only walk short distances at this point then must stop, rest and resume. Thank you for posting your video. It helped me know what to expect.

[@samsimone21]

Thank you for sharing! I will need this surgery one day and have been stressed out about it. This video helped calm me down a bit but you're right there are not many stories like this out there and this helped reassure me that everything is going to be just fine. Thanks

[@buzzbuzzerson3592]

I just watched a clip of Mick Jagger's surgery details. He had the minimally invasive surgery, a valve placed like a stint. He was up and dancing a few days later. 3 years later, he's dancing on stage like a 25 year old and he's 78! This made me feel less anxious about my approaching surgery.

[@michaelware8842]

I’ve just had my aortic valve replaced with a mechanical valve . I , like you looked everywhere looking for patient stories to get a good idea about the outcome and recovery . Your story has really paralleled mine . I appreciate your sharing . Keep up the good work . Congrats

[@akmgforlife6164]

Michael Ware Do you hear the clicking and have you got used to it? I need this surgery soon as well

[@Mazerlick]

Thanks for the vid. I have this surgery scheduled for the end of this year. I'm 26 and glad to hear you feel better afterwards!

[@jaccrazy21]

Mazerlick I hope you are ok! I had coarctation of the Aorta repaired at 8 yrs. old. But I still have a narrow Aorta, Bicuspid valve, and left v.s.d. hole. So I will need surgery again. So rare that I hardly ever meet anyone who understands so I made a video too. Wishing you all the best ❤

[@kimhaan6839]

Congratulations on your year anniversary! I just had my surgery on the 24th of April 2018 - aortic valve replacement and mitral valve repair - OHS. Your video is very encouraging as I hope to be back running in the near future. Thank you!

[@annlesleysteyn]

How are you doing now Kim?

[@jaccrazy21]

Wishing you all the best ❤

[@rajpandey2986]

@kimhaan6839 your was open heart surgery?

[@StefannyBauman]

Amazing video! Thanks for sharing ! And happy valve birthday!!

[@planesandbikes7353]

Thanks for the heads up!. Will be getting a metal A valve in the next few months. Hope to be back mountain biking by summer.

[@baumansound]

Planes and Bikes you should take it easy for a little while but I think that by summer you’ll be fine! 3 months life start getting normal 8 months is almost total recovery

[@emanuelgomez1623]

I loved this video. Very helpful. I will need surgery in the near future, so this video was comforting in knowing what to expect. Thank you for this.

[@TravelingOurBestLife]

Thank you for this informative post. I am facing this surgery and kinda nervous, but I lean on my faith!

[@ginaberrie2608]

Thank you for such an extensive and detailed video of what to expect after mechanical valve. My nephew had to have two mechanical valves placed, pretty much out of the blue. Seems like such a life changing procedure, and I'm scared out of my mind for him. I'm learning about his life changes and know much more because you took the time to share your experiences. I know where he will need help, and will make myself available for him. I'm relieved to know that even after so many things are and will forever be different for him, there is also a

[@kishorrakhe]

Hi Edward Thank you for such detailed and informative video. Wish you all the best!

[@michaelwelch757]

Thx so much for ur video! Down to earth video like this is what I needed. Thx again!

[@kc50st]

Thank you for this! I'm getting ready to have aortic valve replacement surgery next week. Very helpful information

[@amycucuz8932]

How are you doing

[@myfavorites1016]

how are you doing ? i had same thing done , im fine its 12/13/20 mine was in rochester minnesota mayo

[@TransplantHelper]

Great video (still watching) I’m a Heart Transplant recipient but I’ve been recently diagnosed with aortic valve stenosis. So I’m about to undergo a valve replacement surgery. It good to here from someone who’s been there and done that.

[@tedbendixson]

Thanks for this. It's really nice to just hear about what it's like.

[@tinafestorazie6386]

Thank you for your informative advice. It was very helpful. Continued success in your life.

[@lydiamotari3868]

My boyfriend had the same procedure in Kenya Mombasa makadara thank you for this your story 😊

[@mwaiyoung7006]

Very informative video. It has cleared my anxiety. I'm having my AVR tomorrow.

[@bigboar8678]

Hey man awesome video love the support and the fact you don’t go like most ppl and just scare the ish out of ppl like us with bav

[@tomr1961]

Thank you for this video. Well done. I will be having heart surgery very soon. know this is very helpful.

[@Fuccboii69]

congrats! i'll be on a surgery too in a week now! i hope i will be better ❤️

[@startechcode]

I'm having my angiography this week before my upcoming surgery, thanks for telling me about what it is like I'm scared! 😬

[@yahyamalik3206]

Loved it stay safe and live longer

[@auroraluis4221]

Thank you for info so glad your doing well.tomorrow i see heart doctor have the same problem .to see what he says.may god bless you also.

[@srinivasch6542]

I undergone into the same surgery 6 months before got replaced my AV. Now im feeling comfortable like normal. But yes as you said medication is so important lifetime.

[@rubykaur3687]

Thank you for this information my husband just had same surgery

[@4kgameplays863]

I have a surgery on Tuesday im 29 from Calgary...thanks fir the video man..god bless you

[@paulrankin4696]

Thanks for video buddy I've had aortic valve replacement surgery also everything went well.

[@GsBBoyDan]

Are you alive? No uploads for a year...

[@SomayehKarami]

thank you for sharing, I had the surgery last year, I am in Iran, the hospital was equipped enough, but they didn't explain to me what to expect after the surgery, and I had some very difficult couple of months till i get used to my situation. I went to work like 3 weeks after the surgery because my doctor thought it was safe for me, but I was just too weak. anyway, thank you.

[@davidpearlactorteacherbizman]

Sorry to hear--how are you now ? Iranian people are great people

[@sesili9844]

Thank u for the video! Really helps a lot!

[@007butty]

Thank you Ed so Helpful

[@MsJLG]

Thank you for sharing! My husband just had a heart surgery and this is very encouraging. Take care🙂

[@user-oy7fl8nl5q]

Watched this video second time. First time was six month ago right after my mitral valve replacement. Want to say thank you because this video helped me. Hope you doing well now!

[@briansowle8326]

Thanks for making this video. It helped a lot. I go in for a bicuspid aortic replacement. Also have to fix an aortic aneurysm in a couple of weeks. Great information!

[@jasonmaltz7040]

Brian Sowle I am going in next month for the exact same issues. Which valve did you go with?

[@AlfredandIsobel]

Thank you for this. Very useful information.

[@ajpello2003]

Thank u this is so helpful! I’m 34 and am terrified of having this procedure but this helped a lot!

[@pmgg8095]

My surgery was Sept 11, 2020. I knew for 3 years that I might eventually need this surgery. I did a lot of light reading about it all ( never watched a surgery video tho, lol, that was too much info for me). By the time I had my surgery I had no anxiety to speak of. You stepped out & then you wake up. It was of course uncomfortable immediately following. I was in ICU for 3 days then transfered to a ward for 4 days before going home. There you take care when transferring, shifting positions etc. You are given all the info you need. By 6 weeks post op I was walking my hallways up to 11,000 steps 4 times a week. Unfortunately just 3 months after surgery I tripped over the exercise machine I had bought for post-op recovery! Not my finest moment! I shattered one foot in 3 places (other foot had torn tendons) & I had surgery to repair, 4 months in w/c, 2 months using a walker. Dang what bad luck. I am still not walking as before fall 11 months later so my cardiac rehab has been very delayed. All in all the cardiac recovery was a breeze compared to broken foot. I am not making light of heart surgery because it is a serious altho very common surgery. But be ready & have your support system in place & I think you will do just fine. Take care.

[@diggitallindadirt3283]

Very good information thanks

[@mellyz601]

Thank you for the video. I had the same experience you had. I have mechanical heart valve too. My surgery was May 17, 2017. You are lucky your family helped you. Only my sister came from Istanbul. I have also pulsatilla tinnitus so I can hear my heart beating every night very annoying. My English writing is not so good but I tried my best.

[@annlesleysteyn]

Melly, I promise the tinnitus gets less annoying with time. I am four years post-op and I hardly notice it now.

[@mellyz601]

Annie2509 Thanks Annia

[@papablesspapabless1881]

You are right, I had a mechanical valve replacement last two months and it makes noise. And sometimes the valve rotate faster for seconds and again works normal and sometimes it rotate slowly for seconds and works normal and this scares me, please is it normal?

[@jamessumaljag5271]

Papabless Papabless that is normal says my cardiologist. I still have that too.. my heartbeat will become irregular its called pre mature heart beat, especially if I lift heavy objects or if I am very tired but if I rest it will get back to normal beat.

[@ezola4927]

Thank you for sharing, you are awesome.

[@AustinWerner]

Thanks for sharing! Im 21, and was also born with a bicuspid aortic valve and am scheduled for surgery at the end of the year. Its scary to think about anticoagulants because i work in construction and race motocross. So my whole lifestyle is going to change... thanks for the tips and info!

[@AbdulKarim-fu5er]

Did u have aortic stenosis also sir when u were born. My son has BAV and stenosis also. Pls reply

[@Jameskonigchr]

I will have the same surgery in a few days. Anchorage, Alaska

[@julietsvlog7515]

Hi thank you so much for this I just had mine last August 2022 . .Valve replacement

[@titocamacho69]

I will have my mechanical valve on the 24th of may 2019. I am 44 years young. I feel alot better with your video. Thank you so much.

[@esateire]

Tmoney Camacho hello, how are you doing?

[@xyz-ph4gi]

Tmoney camacho what is the price of mechanical valve..

[@titocamacho69]

@@xyz-ph4gi i payed less than 10gs for my valve. It's a steal I tell you. Your a whole new man.

[@HollyWoodall23]

This video is great thank you for sharing ❤

[@StpSerge]

Thank you for the video.

[@helivarma]

Thank you very much for the information.

[@deepaksinghsisodiya5690]

R u from India?? Plese reply

[@23813114]

I had a triple by-pass and valve replacement (Pigs) a year before Edward at the age of 77. His description of the procedure and recovery is spot on! However, I was stupid enough to try to get out of bed unassisted and without my "Chest Pillow" and burst my stitches, ended up meekly apologizing to the medical team. Before the operation, I honestly thought my days were numbered and I looked terrible when I left hospital, but the human body is truly amazing and I was back to normal in a few months. I now I feel more healthy than I have done for 10 years or so. only slight ongoing problem is I constantly have a bad taste in my mouth, but a small price to pay... Wish this video had been available before I had my OP... Patrick

[@annlesleysteyn]

Wow!!!! You are amazing...

[@baumansound]

I wonder what this bad taste is. I have no clue. For me, my gums are easily inflamed now, because I have 2 wisdom tooth. They used to get inflamed once in a while, now it’s all the time... guess it takes longer for the body to heal on warfarin. Removing might me too risky now

[@petiteedith7201]

23813114 years

[@richardmorton1310]

Good job

[@HungerSTR1KE]

I'm getting a mechanical aortic valve next month. Thank you for this video. I'm afraid of sounding like the crocodile from Peter Pan. I don't want to get insomnia from the ticking. Like you said - just have to buck up and deal with it!

[@mohammadjasour]

I had my open heart surgery one year ago in November (11-11-2020) at age of 33. I received a mechanical aortic valve (On-X) and ascending part of my aorta was also replaced. One year after, I feel healthy and stronger. I use warfarin and am very active now. Nobody has so far noticed the clicking sound, and my wife just loves it. The most challenging part of the recovery process was dealing with depression. Physical pain was fine and tolerable, so make sure to overcome any anxiety during this hard period you have supporting love beside you.

[@soniapaiva7341]

Hope you are doing well. I’m considering mechanical valve I had a cow tissue valve 14 years ago but it’s failing now . The clicking noise is it hard to get used to I’m afraid of that?

[@mohammadjasour]

@@soniapaiva7341 Thanks a lot, Sonia. So far I have been doing just great. The sound is not bothering me or the people around me. In fact, the sound is clean and relaxing. I hope everything will go well with you as well.

[@benkoning2241]

I too had an On-X valve and ascending aortic graft in December 2021. It took me a few months to get used to the ticking sound, but (1) nobody else notices it, and (2) everything must be perfectly quiet for me to hear it, and (3) even I can’t hear it in certain positions in bed, and (4) if I can get used to it, anyone can, because I’m very sensitive/scared/care about such things. I never give it a second thought, these days. Regarding INR, yes you have to be on Coumadin forever, but I plan (and have dr. Ok) to scuba dive again … it is not like you are prohibited from doing everything. Also, hopefully soon there will be another option: elliquis - there is a study going on right now to see if it can be used with the On-X valve. This medication will not require constant INR monitoring nor have vitamin-K restrictions. But even on Coumadin, I haven’t had any problems with my diet, but that’s mostly because I eat like sh*t (less veggies, more fast food) anyway.

[@LezleysAdventures]

thank you, very informative

[@jeromemaxwell143]

Thank You!

[@mjk6814]

Thank You

[@bradpittless837]

Thank You.

[@unstopfm]

Hi Ed, hope this note finds you well. It was very comforting and helpful to watch your videos. I’m 55 yrs old and had my Aortic Valve replaced with an On-X mechanical valve 4 1/2 months ago. I’m recovering well but I’m now beginning to feel sharp pains around my sternum incision. Nothing too bad or nothing that lasts long. Did you experience similar symptoms during your first 4-6 months? Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a wonderful Happy New Year. A much better and safer 2021. Obrigado.

[@spidaron-]

thank you for sharing

[@tomolonotron]

I had exactly the same birth defect with bicuspid aortic valve - had surgery a birth. I had my aortic valve replacement with an on-x valve about 6 months ago - I'm 32 years old. I will now have to take warfarin, my INR range is 1.5-2.0. The company that created on-x recommends this range but because this product is only 7 years old, the consultants have encourage me to aim for 2-2.5. I also had the electrophysio test where they enter through the leg - this was to test for any arrhythmia as I had issues with this for 3 years prior to my 2nd aortic surgery. My heart was pounding so hard my body was shaking the entire table and equipment! My consultants have been amazing, the reason for the dilation was when your body grows, the defective aortic valve also grows and becomes dilated and leaks form. I'm a keen elite athlete and was worried that I was pushing my body and that made the situation worse - but that was not the case at all. I can continue to do the things I want to do now. I realise this video is quite old and hope you are doing well, you look very well which is encouraging. Thank you for the video!

[@martinlipczynski8246]

Having this done on 6/24/19. I'm 51. Has same symptoms. Born this way. I appreciate your post. Thank-you!

[@martinlipczynski8246]

Ok so about a month out. Feel great. Honestly, no pain through the whole thing. Healing and very happy. If anyone would like to talk, reach out and I'll answer. Thanks for the video. God bless you all.

[@jasonmaltz7040]

Martin Lipczynski I’m 46 and having this surgery on September 10th. Which valve do you go with? Trying to decide between mechanical or animal/tissue valve. Also born with a bicuspid valve which is now causing issues. Also have an aneurysm on my aorta.

[@martinlipczynski8246]

@@jasonmaltz7040 Hey. I chose organic. I'm a beer drinker and if you go mechanical you must be on warfarin the rest of your life. Warfarin is rat poison, have to get tested constantly for levels. Vitamin K is the antidote for warfarin. So no greens or limited veggies and such. This procedure literally saved my life. I was a bomb ticking. Thank God for surgeons and the staff that cared for me. If I can do anything to help you, don't hesitate to ask. Good luck.

[@martinlipczynski8246]

@@jasonmaltz7040 Mine is a bovine valve. My surgeon only does them, no swine. Never asked why.

[@martinlipczynski8246]

@@jasonmaltz7040 and honest. I'm happy to discuss or go over anything with you. Please don't hesitate.

[@steveblackbird5174]

A Huge Thank You Edward... Wonderfully informative video... What scares me the most is living alone, with no family here in Aus. My GF is going to be overwhelmed I feel. I'm looking at having my Aortic valve replaced in the next few weeks. Severe Regurgitation, that I've suffered for a very long time. At 46 years of age, Cardiologist wants it changed. Been suffering really bad palpitations, shortness of breath. Valve is failing. Born with a heart murmur. Had all the testing done and no other issues, Aorta looks perfect! Having broken, cracked and even split the cartilage between my ribs a few times in the past, when I Raced BMX, I know it's awful. Coughing, sneezing is excruciating...even breathing hurts sometimes. Videos like yours has really given me hope.. suck it up, and get on with it. Think with being stood down from my work for much of this year has taken a mental toll (aircraft mechanical engineer of near 28 years) and possibly why I'm freaking out a bit. It's such a common operation now... Was actually good hearing what a mechanical valve sounds like.. like a watch really. Undecided which valve I'll go for but being in the industry I'm in... warfarin could be a bad thing if I hurt myself, or get cut... which happens in my work all the time.... Again, Thank you so much Edward... God Bless you and your beautiful family!

[@baumansound]

With the help of your friends and GF, you should be more then fine, at this age. You really need full support for around 3 weeks. Then only will need help to lift heavy things for a while, a couple months... besides that, you will be able to be pretty independent. So call your gf to help with laundry and groceries, but being at the house, specially will COVID, will be ok. Work needs to support you, specially after this long. if they dont, send them to hell! Warfarin is not as bad as it seems. I even sliced my thumb with a broken plate last week, put some antibiotic spray in it, held wound firmly for 10-15 mins, and it stopped. Then just kept a bandage for about a week (with cleaning) and nothing happened, so is all good. Problem with an organic one at almost 50, is that you’ll likely will have to change again at around 70.... but hey, Arnold Schwarzenegger chose organic, changed it 3 times already with no complications, and is still standing strong and playing with his sharped teeth pet donkeys :D

[@steveblackbird5174]

@Edward, Thank you for the fast reply. I've had a few operations, mainly shoulder, and of all things a tailbone I broke after over rotating on a back-flip snowboarding near 20 years ago... jeez I'm accident prone lol... I know I'm in good hands. I do ok, as a patient and enjoy my solitude. Just this one has me a little worried. Thank you again, I've been on aspirin, and a bunch of meds (Beta blocker recently) Poor Arnold, didn't he get back into body building too quickly after one operation and he had to have it redone soon after? He's a beast. Truly Grateful for your Video Edward. Again.. Thank You!

[@satyendraswarnkar5234]

Hi thanx there ur video really helps me it’s 10’ th week of my avr

[@alexanderlinus]

Im 17 turning 18 in 3 months and imma go through with the same sugery as you in 2 weeks. I just wanted to say that im really thankful that you made this video and that you made my day a little bit better, thanks :)

[@MrBurns-um2id]

How did it go? What kind of valve did you get? (Pig or mechanical) How was your rehabilitation? I'm gonna have this surgery done at some point and i would like to know as much as i can Im close to your age, im 22

[@richbaines9752]

@@MrBurns-um2id me2 I can't decide what to have mechanical or bio???

[@MrBurns-um2id]

@@richbaines9752 it depends on how old you are ...if you're young I think a mechanical valve will be better because tissue valves will most definitely need replacement after 10 years .. especially if you're very active

[@jaccrazy21]

Hope you are well. I had Aortic repair at 8 yrs. old and will need another surgery due to bicuspid valve, left v.s.d. and Aortic Stenosis. You r not alone. I did a video as well about when I was a kid. Hugs. Keep us posted.

[@jc1531997]

@@jaccrazy21 how old are you now, hopefully you are feeling good, i am 23 and will be having aortic valve repair in a couple of weeks, can you tell me what to expect from the procedure on the short and long term? Thank you

[@karenjones6715]

Thankyou recently had a mechanical valve put in . So scarey and unexpected .

[@cambioclimaticocatalinaric7959]

Thanks to you for the video! For me this process has been very difficult, and your video helped me. I don´t know the date yet, and still on the decision process of which kind of valve to use. Thanks a lot

[@annlesleysteyn]

Hi Catalina. I have had two valve replacements (pig/mechanical). I was 29 when I had my first replacement (pig), 46 when I had my mechanical valve. I chose the pig valve as my first option as my husband and I were undecided about having a third child (I gave birth to him a year after my surgery). Have you decided which valve to use?

[@alejandragutierrez4981]

Annie2509 hello I am 45 and my doctor recommended mechanical valve. Do you have any suggestions of what brand for mechanical and what brand for pig since you have experience with both. My surgery is in 3 weeks and I’m leaning towards the mechanical valve

[@chrisrob5132]

Thank you for this sir

[@cvonpete]

Amazing video. Thank you so much. How long did it take for you to not feel pain and also how long did it take for you to be walking for an hour?