Robb's Profile

Diagnosed with Mitral Valve Prolapse almost twenty years ago and my doctors have been watching it. a couple months ago, my Primary Provider ordered an echo ....... and away we went! The prolapse had clearly gotten worse with the added fun & excitement of severe regurgitation. So, it is time to get it fixed. A little background, this condition may or may not have been exacerbated by a fairly severe motorcycle accident I had in June of 2018. While I am blessed to be alive, I suffered a compression fracture of the spine which led to paralysis of the right side of my diaphragm. They attempted to basically secure the right hemi-diaphragm in the lowered "inhale" position, but I am pretty sure the sutures tore out the next day. Again, I am lucky to be alive - had I not been wearing a helmet, I would not be writing right now. Due to the elevated diaphragm, there is a chance that the minimally invasive, right side approach will not be practical. If that is the case, Dr. Weiss will open my chest and go in through the sternum. Odds of repair are very good, but there is a chance of replacement, if need be. I guess I'll find out when I wake up!