Steven's Posts

Hello Steve, you are in a right place for education, information and support. I went through mitral valve repair just less than 3 months ago. There are many people here who were in the same situation as you. Just take it easy, step by step, educate yourself as much as you can from this site, it will help you tremendously. For start, what Deena wrote is apsolutley crucial.

Yes,the TEE is a bit unusual and uncomfortable.They had me gargle for a minute,with a numbing solution,Lidocaine maybe.I tried but could only do it for about 15 seconds and swallowed.They gave me some more,with about the same result. So on with the procedure.The first guy(doctor?)attempted to force the tube down my throat,but couldn't,so the head doctor did.Then they steer this thing when looking at different angles of the heart,by pivoting and after awhile,it began to hurt the throat/esophagus,in one area,where it was putting pressure.I was wondering when it was going to end. After it came out and I could speak,my idea was to make a softer tip,because that's what I thought was causing the discomfort,but it was really the bend of the tube pushing against my throat. I might have made it sound worse than what really happens,but not a fun experience.My advice is to gargle for a long time,if that is offered.

My TEE was a much more pleasant experience. The numbing solution was administered in a light mist that was dispensed from a nebulizer. It was very comfortable and effective. I was also given sedation (propofol) and I woke up refreshed with absolutely no memory of the procedure. My cardiologist was able to confidently assure me that a repair was possible. Another action item checked off the list. Hope you also have a similar experience. ❤️

Hi Steven. My TEE was not bad at all. They give you several meds to help you relax, and the actual procedure takes (at least for me) about 10-15 minutes. The balance of time was preparation and recovery. Definitely seek out a surgeon who is experienced with mitral valves and that you have confidence in. I was originally diagnosed by my HMO who wanted me to do “watchful waiting” instead of surgery. They estimated 60% chance of a successful repair. I sought out additional opinions and learned my heart was enlarged due to the severe mitral valve regurgitation. I was in nearly constant A-fib, putting me at great risk of stroke, and the condition would only get worse.I left my HMO and found a wonderful surgical team that I felt confident about. My surgery lasted 7 hours, during which time they had to try several different procedures to repair my mitral valve, but it was successful. I am now 6+ weeks into recovery and doing well. This site is provides honest information and real life experiences from so many heart warriors. You are in the right place. With knowledge comes peace. Best to you.

My TEE wasn’t all that bad of an experience either. They did mine right after an echocardiogram. They numbed my throat with the spray mist and gave me a light sedation. I was aware of the procedure and also when the cardiologist came into the room to check on me and to discuss a little about the findings with the technician. You’re going to find lots of useful information on this website. I’ll remember you this week. Praying that everything goes well for you and that you can find the resources that you need. ~❤️