There is nothing better than waking up, kissing Ethan (my 6-week old son), turning on my computer, and opening an incredible email from one of my readers.
That said, I thought you might like to read this inspirational note from John O’Neill. As you can see, John discusses many of the experiences common to heart valve [...]
Heart Valve Replacement
Heart Valve Replacement News and Info
Archive for May, 2009
“Did Robin Williams Have Open Heart Surgery Or Minimally Invasive Surgery?” Asks Marianna
Posted in May 21st, 2009
Marianna just sent me an interesting question about Robin Williams and his recent, double heart valve surgery.
Her email reads, “Adam - I was recently diagnosed with a very narrow heart valve (severe aortic stenosis). I’m a 59-year old grandma that still has a lot of living - cooking and gardening in particular - to do. [...]
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Low Mortality Rates For Sapien Valve, According To Edwards Lifesciences
Posted in May 21st, 2009
Considering I’m fascinated with technology, it’s natural and logical that I would monitor the ongoing roll-out and clinical trials specific to the Sapien heart valve replacement device developed by Edwards Lifesciences.
The wonderful possibilities of this unique technology could help many, many, many aortic valve replacement patients in the future. The Sapien system (shown below) is [...]
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“Did Your Heart Pound Like Crazy After Valve Surgery?” Asks Josh
Posted in May 21st, 2009
Josh just asked me an important, post-operative question about elevated heartbeat sensations after heart valve surgery and aneurysm repair. I responded below but, if you are a former patient, maybe you can help Josh by leaving a comment as well? Here is what he writes:
“Adam: I do have one question about something that is bothering [...]
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Dr. Vaughn Starnes… Our First “Heart Surgeon Of The Month”
Posted in May 19th, 2009
In connection with the launch of our Heart Valve Surgeon Database, I am pleased to announce that each month this website will feature a “Heart Valve Surgeon of the Month” to be nominated by an actual patient.
That said, I have the distinct pleasure of selecting Doctor Vaughn Starnes, M.D. as our initial honoree.
“Why Doctor Starnes?” [...]
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Can You Get Life Insurance After Heart Valve Surgery?
Posted in May 19th, 2009
I’m not sure if you remember… But, I have been trying to get life insurance after my heart valve surgery for a lonnnnnnnnnnnnnng time.
During this process, I have been denied, even auto-denied, by some of the largest insurance carriers as soon as they learn that I had my aortic and pulmonary valves replaced.
Well… I have [...]
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Double Wow! Heart Valve Surgery On A Fetus!
Posted in May 19th, 2009
I just read a very interesting story at Canada.com about heart valve surgery on a fetus. To some extent, my jaw dropped to the ground as I learned about the surgical procedure used to save little Oceane McKenzie. Here are the highlights:
In what’s being called a Canadian first, Toronto doctors have successfully performed a life-saving [...]
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The ‘Other Side’ Of Patient & Caregiver Fear
Posted in May 18th, 2009
I receive about 50 emails each day about heart valve surgery, from both patients and caregivers. Unfortunately, many of these emails begin with opening statements like:
“Hi Adam - I am scared out of my mind right now, I was just diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis…”
“Hi Adam - After monitoring my my mitral prolapse for 10 years, [...]
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Robin Williams Jokes About ‘Heart Valve Surgery’ With David Letterman
Posted in May 14th, 2009
After double heart valve surgery…. Robin Williams is back!!!!!
Last night, Robin made a special appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman.
As you would imagine, Williams has easily managed to transform his mitral valve repair and aortic valve replacement experience into some great, stand-up comedy. I especially liked the funnies about cow valves, pig valves, [...]
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