Jeff's Profile

I am 51. I was diagnosed with MVP when I was 10 and have had no open heart procedures. I have been seeing the same local cardiologist annually since I was 25. Over the course of the last 25 years my MVP has been relatively static with moderate regurgitation, however, I learned of other underlying problems such as a bicuspid/stenotic aortic valve along with a mildly dilated ascending aorta and left pulmonary artery. Four years ago, my cardiologist wanted me to get a second opinion at the Cleveland Clinic with staff cardiologist Dr. William Stewart. I have since been seeing Dr. Stewart annually who has put me through more intensive and detailed testing. Up until this week, we have been watchful waiting as I have been relatively asymptomatic. As a result of more frequent palpitations, non-sustained tachycardia during a stress echo and Dr. Stewart's intuition, he is now recommending surgical intervention. Two Cleveland Clinic surgeons have been recommended to deal with my mix of issues as described: My general heart condition: Bileaflet Mitral Valve Prolapse: Moderate to severe regurgitation. Bicuspid/Stenotic Aortic Valve: Moderate regurgitation. Ascending Aorta Dilation: Mild / 4.1cm. Left Pulmonary Artery Dilation: Mild+ / 4.0cm. EF: 56 +/-5% Hypertension: 130/80 with meds. 160/90 without meds. The preliminary plan: 1: Repair mitral valve. 2: Replace aortic valve (with bio valve, type TBD). 3: Aortaplasty * 4: Left Pulmonary artery plasty * (* Surgical restoration to reduce the diameter of the ascending aorta and left pulmonary artery.) I am presently awaiting a call from the surgeons office for scheduling, tentatively set for December-2014. I will return to the Cleveland Clinic a few days prior to surgery for pre-op tests such as a left & right heart cath., chest x-ray, MRI and bloodwork. If all goes to plan, I will be in Cleveland for 5 days and then home for approx. 6 weeks. The percentages (per Dr. Stewart): 90% probability of a successful repair on the mitral valve vs. replacement if the repair is not successful. 2% chance of death. 4% chance of residual problems or complications such as stroke, heart attack, lung problems. More to follow. Jeff