Karen's Posts

Diagnosis: Aortic Stenosis, Bicuspid Aortic Valve, Aortic Aneurysm

Member Since: January 3, 2022

Send Karen a Note

My Posts

Karen Marvenko posted an update
4 years ago (March 20, 2022)
I’ve been readmitted to the hospital twice now (4-6 March, 1 month after surgery) for fluid around the right lung which had to be removed and just was released a 2nd time (readmitted 16-18 Mar) with fluid around the left lung that had to be removed , diagnosed with Dressler’s... Read more.
Karen, I'm so sorry for your setbacks. I was readmitted 4 times with various complications (once for pleural effusion) so I hear you! But you are a warrior and before too long, you'll be feeling better
Thanks Rose! Holy cow, 4 times…you’re a trooper and an inspiration. Glad things finally improved and I know they will for me also.
Karen Marvenko posted an update
4 years ago (March 11, 2022)
My follow up echo went well, all fluid around my heart and lungs are gone, so think I am finally to the recovery side! Dr diagnosed my condition as Dressler’s syndrome, so glad it’s resolved. I do still have sternum aches, but it’s manageable with ibuprofen and muscle relaxers until... Read more.
😮 🥰 ❤️ Adam Pick, Susan Lynn and reacted to this
Karen, awesome news - thank you for sharing!
Karen Marvenko posted an update
4 years ago (February 14, 2022)
Had a successful op on 8 Feb, with aortic root replacement and a mechanical aortic valve replacement. Bit of a tricky road to get out of the hospital, they said my body is holding too much fluid and they fear afib, so although I was hoping to head home yesterday... Read more.
👍 ❤️ Someone, Rose Madura and reacted to this
Great to hear your progress. Stay positive! You are on the recovery road!
The first 2 weeks were tough.. Hang in there, and things will gradually improve!
I was readmitted 4 times for complications and I attribute it to them releasing me too soon. That's my opinion though and they won't keep you if they feel there is "no medical reason to keep you". After my first readmission, my cardiologist asked me if I wanted to stay... Read more.
Thank you all, spoke to my doctor today, so they opted for a tissue valve versus the mechanical valve they had planned on, apparently the mechanical would’ve been too large. So if they need to replace in the future it will be another tissue one through my leg. Good news... Read more.
Getting there, Karen. I agree with Richard. I preferred to stay in the hospital until confident O was not going to be in the ER.
Karen, I’m sure you’ll be home at just the right time. Recovery rarely follows a straight path, so I’ve been told, but the big event is behind you and you’ll be feeling better soon. Hang in there!
They wanted me out after 4 days and said as well that all my vitals say go home. Richard knew better however because i know when i am not ready so i accentuated the negatives and squeezed out 2 extra days. Was i crazy about staying in there longer, no,... Read more.

The Patient's Guide

The Patient's Guide

This book has helped over 47,000 patients and caregivers from diagnosis to recovery.

Heart Hospital Map

Heart Hospital Map

Search for heart hospitals that specialize in heart valve treatment.