Rick's Profile

In August of 2023 during my annual physical, my doctor heard a heart murmur. This was a total shock to me as I have always had a clean bill of health for 48 years of my life. I was referred to a cardiologist for an echocardiogram. In October of 2023, my cardiologist I was referred to told me I had a bicuspid aortic valve with moderate aortic stenosis. He indicated that I would eventually need a new heart valve and recommended we would take a wait and see approach and follow up for a 1 year check up. In November of 2023, I sought out a new healthcare network and team for a 2nd opinion. After more advanced testing (CT Angio & Echo), it was discovered that not only do I have a bicuspid valve with stenosis, but also an aortic aneurism. I was referred to CT Surgeon and he indicated that the condition was more serious (severe stenosis and large aneurism) than the original test indicated and I should start considering surgical plans sooner that later. My wife and I started researching more and decided to have a virtual 2nd opinion from the Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Milind Desai reviewed my case and provided a detailed report. We decided to move forward with the Cleveland Clinic team. Dr. Desai referred me to surgeon Dr. Lars Svensson for an aortic valve replacement and ascending aorta replacement. My heart valve surgery is scheduled for 3-7-2024. Stay tuned.......