Hello,
Looking for some good opinions, not guarantees.
My dad is 78, has been in great health until the Spring, when he just wasn't feeling good. End up he went into the hospital in late September for a week with Congestive Heart Failure. They took 19 lbs worth of fluid out, did all the imaginable heart tests and bottom line his heart is working at 25%. They sent him home and his hospital cardiologist said he would need to have an aortic heart valve replacement. He's stubborn, and refused any surgery so they gave him meds to keep the fluids down, but now a month later he is filling back up and has come to the conclusion that to have a chance to live normal again he must have the surgery. He's just scared of dying on the table. There are no other issues medically other than this problem. We've researched other good cardiologists for a second opinion, and they all agree. I have found one of the best cardiothoracic surgeons in Florida to perform any procedure.
All that said, I have done a lot of research on the subject and found other than direct open heart surgery there are other less invasive procedures as well. We will find out from the surgeon which one he is a candidate for.
Essentially, we're all scared. I would like to hear from an experienced cardio physician, or surgeon what he may be facing. Most of all, since this is all new to us and we have talked to all those people who have an opinion "Oh, it's just routine now, he'll be fine" I'd like to hear a professional opinion about the risks of surgery, what MOST prognosis's are in getting through the surgery (If you can use just basic percentages please), and what he can expect (In general) for the next 5 years or so it would be greatly appreciated. I know knee surgery can be risky...and I am not underestimating this of course. That said, how successful is it in one, making it off the table from what you have seen, and two how will this surgery help him feel? I can tell you now from his heart being so damaged he is just tired all the time and it can't pump enough to keep the fluid out. Can we expect, if all goes well that an 85% heart rate is feasible afterwards?
If you wish, for a longer reply can be sent to my email address. Thanks for any help.
It took some doing but she's willing. I have positive feelings about this plan. We'll let you know what happens. By the way, HappyGal is JuddhaBuddhaBoo but my account was all screwed up.
Research individual surgeons and what their personal success rate is for this surgery. You also want the hospital with the best nursing. That's what gets you through recovery and out the door to rehab.
Pick your cardiac rehab facility beforehand. Find a place that specializes in cardiovascular if you can and tour it with your dad so he'll be familiar with it. Let him see the exercise machines and have staff talk with him about what kind of treatment plans they usually device for post op patients. The more expected and familiar he is with what is going to happen, the less fearful he'll be.
Recovery from heart surgery is always a slow process. The protocol for most cardiac surgeries is to put the patient on antidepressants afterwards. My husband agreed, and I think it made a big difference in his recovery. You might find out if the doctor recommends your dad start them now rather than wait. Good luck!
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