The other day, I wrote a blog about the Contraindications of Ultram and Coumadin. Since then, I have been bombarded with questions about other potential issues, conflicts and side-effects of Coumadin (Warfarin Sodium). That said, I will respond to each of your questions over the next few weeks. To advance this topic, I have consulted with a psychiatrist who might be co-blogging with me on this subject.

I just received an email from Eddie who is preparing for his heart valve replacement surgery. Eddie has mitral valve prolapse and severe mitral regurgitation. Eddie is 67 years old and is considering a tissue valve. Specifically, Eddie is leaning towards a porcine valve (aka a pig valve) and has several questions.

I will never forget my first interview with a heart surgeon.

As I have posted in prior blogs, there are a number heart surgery centers that are practicing heart valve repair and heart valve replacement using minimally invasive procedures including robotic surgery devices and transcatheter approaches.

It's one thing to be diagnosed with a heart valve disorder. It's another thing to be told that your heart valve problem has worsened and you need heart valve surgery.