Mike's Posts

I had a fever for over 30 days. Mine was related to post-pericardiotomy syndrome that was finally diagnosed last week! I also had pleural effusion that needed to be drained. Tests needed to make the diagnosis were a CT, Echo, several chest x-rays and several blood tests. Also an analysis of the pleural effusion fluid. I have read that some early fevers can be reduced through use of the incentive spirometer. Either way monitor and report any symptoms to your cardiologist or surgeon. I hope you feel better soon.

My surgery was on 4/16/2025 at Franciscan Health Heart Valve Center in Indianapolis. This picture was taken on 4/21/2025 as I was preparing for discharge. Dr. Marc Gerdisch conducted the surgery to replace what was thought to be a bicuspid aortic valve with stenosis. What a surprise to find out it was a unicuspid valve (just one flap). Amazing that I had not had previous issues being so active all my life. During surgery, my dialated ascending aorta was assessed and replaced. Due to previously diagnosed paroxysmal A-fib, Dr. Gerdisch preformed a Cox Maze ablation - including a left atrial appendage clamp. Also, due to heart rhythm issues, I had wires inserted that were used with an exterior pacer to keep track of my heart rhythm. I will now wear a monitor that speaks to a smart phone for a month to see if my heart will get into sinus rhythm on its own of if I need a pacemaker. I had done a significant amount of research on valve types and after a final consultation with Dr. Gerdisch, I decided upon the On-X mechanical valve. I began on warfarin in the hospital and I will be visiting my local coag clinic today for my first INR check. BTW, so far neither I or my wife hear the valve. Hopefully, next week I will start some cardio rehab. I have already taken my first few walks. While there is some pain and loss of stamina, I have been able to get by thus far with only Tylenol and some nice warm showers. I can't say enough about Dr. Gerdisch and the Franciscan team. I am so thankful that God lead me to this surgeon, team, and facility. I also owe a huge thank you to my wi8fe of my wife of almost 44 years and my daughter (a NICU nurse) who accompanied me to Indianapolis from FL. And last, thanks to Adam for this site and for establishing such a great community of heart warriors. Blessings, and keep on ticking. Mike

Awesome report and great information. I have been going to Cleveland Clinic for past five years and went to Franciscan for another opinion. Its only an hour from home where Cleveland is six hours. I'm teetering between the two. Both have indicated that I will need a new valve. I am 59 and interested in the On-x but thought I might be too old. Interesting to hear your story. I will be meeting with Dr. Gerdisch soon and looking forward to his feedback. Best wishes on your recovery.

Mike, You locked into one of the best out there. Great job finding Dr. Gerdisch. Regarding the recovery, did Dr. Gerdisch talk to you about his Rapid Recovery Protocol? If not, this video should give you even more comfort about Dr. Gerdisch's accelerated recovery protocols for both sternotomy and minimally-invasive patients. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxDtIONg9Hc

Best of luck Mike! We seem to be on a similar course, (my valve issue is the mitral valve). I contacted Dr. Gerdisch several days ago to get a second opinion and it’s nice to know you have had a good experience with him. You have great support to help you on your journey 🙏.