Valerie's Profile

After watching a slow growing aortic aneurysm for a decade, I got a surprise at my last visit when I was diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis. I guess like many of you, I had thought this day was still far away, then I’ve been thrown into it not at all mentally ready. I’d love to talk to anyone who used Cleveland Clinic for aortic valve or aneurysm issues. I went for a repeat echo and CT scan as well as consult with my preferred surgeon in October 2023. Minor changes since May but right on cusp of when surgery is recommended, aneurysm at 5.0, stenosis just under severe. Aortic root will also be replaced. EF>60. Being 71 and having an illness that took almost a year to recover from in 2017 (severe pancreatitis) I waver between getting this done and hiding under the bed! My surgery date is now set, and then reset. Then reset for 2 days later. Update: successful surgery at Cleveland Clinic on 4/18/24. In the hospital for 9 days due to longer than expected use of 1 liter of oxygen (low level). My choice to stay a few additional days in the attached hotel. Cleveland Clinic provided great skill and and great staff throughout. So grateful.