Patricia's Profile

I have been reading everyone's stories for the past few weeks. I decided to add my story since I have been down this road twice before and can share my experiences. I have know since I was around 10 yrs. old that I had mitral valve prolapse. I had always went for check-ups and life went on. In 2000 I became symptomatic with shortness of breath and CHF. I had mitral valve repair via Alfieri technique. Thought I was able to close the chapter on this book, but I was wrong. In 2007 my symptoms appeared. This time I went to the best, Cleveland Clinic for a valve replacement. I wanted a tissue valve and was told that these new valves can last 16 + years. Great hospital and surgeon. Open-heart with smaller incision and I bounced back so quick that I flew home on a plane 6 days later. Well it has only been 8 years and my valve is failing again. Early December I went into the ER for breathing issues and found out I had CHF. Two weeks ago in the ER for arrhythmia and tests confirm MVS (Mitral Valve Stenosis). So much to take in, but this is my life. I have read many people's difficulties in what valve to choose (mechanical, bovine, porcine, etc.) Everyone is different and only you and your surgeon can make that choice. I am now going with a mechanical valve.