Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
History Of Stroke, Open Heart Surgery. Now Enlarged Heart, Leaky Valves. What To Do?
Hi my mother is 55 years old. In 2004 she had a stroke due to problems from her heart. 2 months later she had open heart surgery to repair the valve. She got better but the last 2 years she's been going down hill again she also has a pace maker. Went to the dr today said her heart is three times the size and she has leaky valves again She currently has 15 lbs of water weight they sent her to the hospital to do test but not sure if she would be candidate for open heart surgery again. What would happen then?
Sat, 29 Jun 2013
Hi,
There are combination of factors that may prevent surgery as you mention: history heart surgery, pace maker and stroke which could further be complicated by dilated heart. However, the decision to operate again will be based on the degree of vulval insufficiency (leaking). If not so advanced, conservative treatment with drugs will probably be the choice. At the meantime she should limit fluid intake and physical activities. Continue assuring her it will be better as well as showing her love.
Hope this help.
Rogers
There are combination of factors that may prevent surgery as you mention: history heart surgery, pace maker and stroke which could further be complicated by dilated heart. However, the decision to operate again will be based on the degree of vulval insufficiency (leaking). If not so advanced, conservative treatment with drugs will probably be the choice. At the meantime she should limit fluid intake and physical activities. Continue assuring her it will be better as well as showing her love.
Hope this help.
Rogers
I find this answer helpful
1 Doctor agrees with this answer
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Cardiac surgery
Loading Online Doctors....