This was one of your better videos. The guest cardiologist was allowed to talk. And he did talk - explained things very well; at a level that most people would understand. Not simple, just thorough. Good job on this one
I had an open heart surgery to fix my aortic regurgitation in 2017. It was a bovine valve which failed in only 3 years. With COVID my diagnosis was delayed and by the time they found my valve was failing my heart was at 25% efficacy. I had a TAVR and it’s been fine so far 👍🏻❤👍🏻
You did not mention Ross procedures. My son had one 29 years ago and now will have to again have open heart and will get a mechanical valve. Cutting through scar tissue is riskier.
Thankyou for this informative video! I’m a 78 year old female who had a TAVR procedure this past April. I came home the next day wearing a ZIO patch for 14 days to make sure that my heart was beating normal. I have been going to cardio rehab which I find to be really helpful. The program runs for 12 weeks and there are different classes you can attend. I’m hoping to live until I’m 100! I feel good and I don’t consider myself old! I enjoy watching your videos, they are very informative. Keep up the good work!
Father-in-law had TAVR at 90+ years of age. He did need a pace maker later but went from critical care to golf course in just over a month. Miraculous development in medical procedure not just for life saving but for quality of life.
I'm 75 and had a TAVR 7 months ago and it has been wonderful! For a year prior I would get a bad headache upon any exertion but have not had a headache since and I exercise 6 days a week. None of my doctors had ever heard of the headache symptom
I had aortic stenosis. Back in 2015, I had the TAVR PROCEDURE DONE! I went home the very next day!! Here it is 2024, and I'm still going strong!! I Praise the Lord that this type of procedure was available for me. I'm so thankful that I didn't have my rib cage cracked open in order to put a new aortic valve in. Thank God for the knowledge these Surgeons have. They went about placing the new valve in by going thru my leg! Sort of like where I've had a heart catherization.
All of your videos are so informative, and you don't speak over my head, but in terms that I can understand. I had an Edwards TAVR procedure done 2 years ago at age 75. You are totally right, I had no idea how much I had slowed down until after my TAVR. I had SO much more energy. What amazed me most about the procedure was the fact that I was awake all the time they were inside my heart while implanting the new valve. It was painless and took less than an hour. I went home the next day. I also saw on the internet somewhere (so it must be true) that Arnold Schwarzenegger and Mick Jagger have had TAVR procedures.
I have been diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis from my last echo a few weeks ago, been monitoring this for a few years with my cardiologist, and just beginning the journey to fix it, I am 73 years old, 5'11" tall and weigh 172 pounds and in excellent shape, so I am hoping that the TAVR will work for me, we shall see, but this video was a great help to me, thank you.
I am going to have the TAVR surgery next Wednesday and have lots of hope for a great experience as you have all been talking about. I am almost 85 so feel good having this done. Seems to be more common to have this done. Thank you all for the glowing results😊.
As a recipient of a TAVI procedure I can honestly say that I feel very lucky. I did wind up with a pacemaker and it appears to be working out just fine. The confirmation that TAVI within TAVI is now within the realm of possibilities gives me great comfort. The only issue omitted from this video was lifestyle and the cause of aortic stenosis. Otherwise a great video. Thanks for covering this issue.
My mother-in-law had the TAVOR procedure done. I took her to follow up appointments with her surgeon every three months. There were about a half dozen patients who all had the procedure done at the same time because we all got to recognize each other. We went to the surgeon’s office, then down 3 floors to get echocardiograms. Then we’d meet again in the hospital lobby waiting for the valet parking folks to retrieve our vehicles. I was just a driver but I spoke to a patient who had a very satisfactory result. He said he was back to his old self, feeling great. He asked how my mother-in-law was doing post-procedure. I told him that she was one of the unfortunate ones who didn’t show much improvement. She died a few years later, but 93 is a long life.
I'm 73 and live in Texas and watch most of your episodes. I had coronary bypass surgery in 2001 and a mitral valve repair in 2008. and have been struggling with Congestive Heart Failure for more than 10 years. I sincerely appreciate the information you are putting out there for us.
I had open heart surgery almost two years ago now. I must say it was a new lease on life. Wouldn't be writing this without it. I'm able to exercise every day and feel totally normal. I'm 73 years young.😃
I'm now 72, had TAVI 2 years ago and it was great! I also have COPD and my aortic stenosis was severe so my O2 levels were bad, had to stop 3 times to catch my breath walking 1 1/2 blocks to the bus stop! No issues for me at all, no pacemaker,or any other negatives, if you have aortic stenosis and are eligible for TAVI I highly recommend it, I had the procedure one day, went home the next day, and the day after that had a few pints at the pub with friends! I had some tenderness in the groin but very mild, not painful or uncomfortable, again if you have the TAVI option go for it!
It amazes me all the things that can be done to help people. Don't have this issue but it was fascinating listening to all that can be done. Dr Heffernan is awesome at explaining things.
My Dr. moved to the states 32 yrs ago. Haven't had a Dr. Since. So you guys are my adopted Dr's. I've been watching you a few yrs now. Now I'm 67 and need a doc. Most of the public walk in clinics don't want you there for a full physical which is what I would love. Wife died at a young age so live alone. I try to follow your advice. Thank you for your channel. I try to follow most of your advice. I don't eat the whole cow now.
Perfect explanations, excellent information delivered by the cardiologist with confidence. I hope I don’t ever need a TAVI but amazing development of a heart treatment.
Thank you so much for this video! My Mom is going through all the steps to hopefully have the Tavi done instead of open heart. I needed to understand the why and the how so the education you provided was absolutely perfect!!
Thanks to Talking with Docs.. Grateful for your professional vlogging on these medical questions. Long time fan, keep up the channel's vlogging; it's great!
I’ve just come home from having a new valve. It’s a miracle and my wife was on the treadmill looking for something to watch on her iPad and this popped up and we are both super happy about what was available to do for me and you guys did a great job and explaining it we saw a picture valve & looks beautiful.
Thank you docs for doing this video…….you not only made it incredibly interesting, but you demonstrated how 3 highly intelligent and educated professionals can work so well together without egos getting involved, or talking over one another. You’re a credit to your field, and thanks for being so dedicated that you put in all that work to become proficient in a very demanding and complex vocation that helps so many people. God bless you guys!
This was a very interesting video! I learned so much and appreciate the fact that we have improved medical procedures drastically in this century! You two are so good at explaining things and your guests are as terrific as you! I hope I'm never in a position to need this procedure but I actually feel better by just knowing about it. You're doing a great job!👍 Thanks for sharing another great video!
Thank you for this video! I am a 72-year-old woman in Ontario with a severely stenotic BAV. It has been almost a year since it was diagnosed and I hope to have treatment soon. Whether that will be TAVI or open-heart, I don’t know yet. Your video was very informative for me. One thing I would suggest though, is discussion of one of the worst symptoms for me. That is edema. My feet and legs are always swollen and sometimes painful. Diuretics offer some relief but I can only take them occasionally for other reasons.
I’m 74, just had ECHO. Two leaking heart valves & aortic stenosis, but asymptomatic so far. Otherwise very healthy & active. Hopefully I won’t need TAVI any time soon. Great video, so informative.. thank you!
I was diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis with a bicuspid aortic valve. While doing the work up for TAVR my CT scan discovered a growth on my left lower lung lobe. Biopsy revealed a rare slow growing cancer which my Thoracic surgeon felt he could do robotic surgery to remove the left lower lobe and felt that would be all the cancer treatment I would need. But he felt I was high risk for a heart attack during surgery so he recommended I have the Aortic valve replacement first. My cardiac team had a meeting and decided that I could have a successful TAVR even though I had a bicuspid aortic valve. I had the TAVR with no complications at age 68 and then had the robotic lung surgery a couple months later. No complications with the lung surgery either. I am so blessed to be healthy again and follow up visits show that all is well with my heart and lung. 😊
I had my aortic valve replaced with a bovine valve in 2016 at age 59. Full procedure with the sternum cracked open. It was 3 months before I could lay down to sleep. My surgeon at the time told me that by the time that valve would need service/replacement again, the procedure would probably less invasive. Sounds like he was correct.
@@TalkingWithDocs Thank you. Just buffed out my Mustang GT today. Only a couple of rest breaks needed. I follow my doctors' recommendations, take my meds and get seen often. Thanks to docs and science, I'm still here. Life is great!
Excellent information for me. My aortic stenosis has progressed to severe. Have had all the diagnostic procedures, including a CAT scan and see the surgeon on Monday to decide TAVR or SVR. Only symptoms at age 76 is need for naps. This video was a great education. Thanks
I had open-heart surgery eleven years ago at the age of 67. They installed a mechanical valve and while inside they did four bypasses. I had no symptoms. I'm now 78 and continue to have an excellent quality of life. Warfarin every day, Metoprolol and a few others and a recent ablation for arythmia. The cardiologists follow me but I still have no symptoms. Life is good thanks to modern cardiovascular practice.
Thank you for explaining it all so well, Doctors. I am due for one in January but have been having other health issues for the past 7 year.. May God help me dealing with everything ( as he has been doing). And I thank him for the doctors also.❤
Tavi a few weeks before turning 74, due to rheumatic fever at age 15 and a bicuspid valve. I felt 1000% better immediately after surgery! No issues whatsoever. If you need it, do it!
I was diagnosed with severe aortic valve stenosis in March of this year (2024). I had a follow up with a stress test, but it didn’t show anything significant. I just had my 6 month eco and still shows significant aortic valve stenosis, but no change from the previous one. I am not exhibiting any of the symptoms, other than heart palpations from worrying about it and anxiety. If I don’t think about it , I feel fine and I like to stay active. I have another echo scheduled another 6 months from now.
How old are you because I have the same exact issue with no symptoms, can you tell me what you've done so far, or are you going to replace your aortic valve, ty please reply.
@ i will be 72 in March. I am still symptom free. I am working part time (3 days a week). I recently bought a bike so I can stay active on the days I’m not working. I just ride it around the neighborhood so I feel like I’m not putting too much strain on my heart. I have my own pool and I swim every day in the summer. I have my next echo the day before my birthday. Hope everything is still OK (all things considered). How are you doing?
@aliceyoung5240 im doing great. I walk 3 miles 5 days a week on my treadmill at 3.3 mph, im 65 years old. My heart doctor says I have a server aortic valve, but again, I have no symptoms, just going to watch it with follow-ups. Ty for replying please keep me informed i will do the same, 🙏🙏🙏🙏 P.S how long have you been diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis.
Let me know how it goes. I also have a family member there at that same hospital, and they are deciding in the next couple of days, which aortic valve procedure to do
I had open heart in 2006 to replace a bicuspid aortic valve and fix an aortic aneurism, very painful and long recovery. In 2019 I had a TAVI to replace the replacement valve and got upset with the anesthetist because he wouldn't let me walk back to my room after the procedure. :)
My husband had the tavi procedure with a bovine replacement at age 78, but he did not do well. He seemed to have stroke symptoms the day after but they said there were no signs of stroke. The nurse called me at home to ask if there was any mental impairment previously, and there was not, but he couldn't remember things she had just told him. He never really recovered from that mental confusion and researching that, I found that this result in seniors was not unknown after surgeries. He passed away on December 23rd last year after two years, and one of the symptoms he had at the end was edema in his legs, so his heart was failing. The death certificate stated heart. He also had stage one Parkinson's, diagnosed at the same time as his heart issue, but his mental decline was sudden and immediate post tavi. He was 80 when he passed. We were together for 60 years. The procedure gave him 2 years but his quality of life was not really improved. I'm still grateful to have had him with us for those 2 years.
I miss him so much, not a day goes by that I don't think of him and the great Dad he was to us kids. Even with his own health issues, he was always there concerned about my own health problems. I Love you Mom.💗
Had a tissue Aortic valve put in and two bypasses 1/12/12. In Sept 2022 had heart attack due to bypasses occluding . They were scented and also had second aortic valve put in by Tavr . Doing good two years later on medication prescribed.
I had Rhematic fever when I was ten, so I knew I would need a valve replacement sooner or later. They have been checking me for years, they have decided on the TAVR because I have CEDS as they said it was the safest option, having the procedure early next year,, thanks for sharing
I’m surprised you didn’t mention a third option for heart surgery. I was born with a bicuspid aortic valve and in 2023 at age 66 I had a minimally invasive surgery at the University of Miami hospital with Dr. Joseph Lemelas for an aortic valve replacement. This procedure is called the “Miami Method “ and the surgeon uses a small inscision on the upper right chest and long tools to replace the valve. No opening of the sternum, much quicker recovery time and less pain. Mine is a bovine valve. This type of surgery is being done all over the US at various hospitals. I’m not sure about Canada.
Had a bicuspid Aortic valve and it was replaced when I was 59. Then after five years it got a tear and had to be replaced again. They tried using the less invasive but couldn't get all the way to my heart and had to fall back to the traditional and crack open my sternum. 2nd one they didn't even try.
In 2012 while still in middle age I had open heart aortic valve replacement. The porcine valve was defective and had to be replaced immediately. Seven years later that valve needed to be replaced. This time I was a candidate for TAVR. The work-up was more extensive than Dr Hefferman describes but seemed to go well. At the last meeting of the team I was told that TAVR was no longer an option. A cogent reason was never given. After watching this video I wonder if the problem wasn't that the two previous trimmings of the aorta did not leave enough clearance for the coronary arteries. My doctors are hinting that another valve replacement could be sooner than later. I guess I will learn the answer then.
My 85yr old father went through TAVR surgery in early June 2019. We did all the pretest to make sure he qualified. CT scan, chest x-ray, a stress test etc. One day after surgery, he went into AFib. Immediately rushed him to the hospital and the next day they put in a pacemaker.Two weeks later he was hospitalized. His oxygen saturation levels were extremely low. The lowest he got was 82. His CO2 levels were off the charts. He was eventually moved to ICU and had to endure ABG's every 2 hours. He went home from the hospital on hospice..By the last week of June he had passed away. My doctor's mother had the same surgery the month before my father. She died the month after my dad because her lungs filled up with fluid so bad. I know of three people in 2019 that died after they had TAVR surgery. Hindsight is 20/20, but if my dad had not had the surgery and would have lived 3 years longer at least we would have had him with us. We miss him everyday.
Thank you so much for this explanation. I think you are talking about me. I am 74 and a little over 2 yrs ago experienced a “brown out” while riding in the car with my husband. I was in the hospital overnight and that’s when they found out that my aortic valve “doesn’t close all the way”. Does that sound familiar? The cardiologist said they wouldn’t do anything unless they needed to????
I will be scheduled for TAVR this year. However, I am rethinking my agreement to have this procedure since I learned there is about a 2% risk of the procedure generating a stroke as a result of calcium flakes or chips getting into the blood stream and winding up in the brain, Two percent (which is probably understated) risk is 2% too much. Please note, my cardiologist didn't mention this to me when discussing the procedure with me. I had to go out to Mayo Clinic website to discover this interesting little fact.. . .Maybe the risk of a stroke during surgery overrides the possibility of three years more life.
Yikes. In February my cardiologist ran tests after I was having palpitations for several weeks and I was a bit more light headed than usual. Decided I was basically fine, the palpitations had stopped and less incidence of lightheadedness. He mentioned that I had a very mild aortic stenosis but that it had changed slightly from the previous echo. So he referred me for a test, said if there was a "problem" with the valve it was an easy fix. Really downplayed all of it, no sense of urgency from them. Said the testing facility would call me in a week or two and if not to give them a call. Still no call. I had looked at the paperwork. The code was for a TAVR/TAVI evaluation. 😮 Wasn't mentioned to me. I got really busy with other stuff, as one does, and just kept forgetting to call. After watching this I'll be calling Monday. I have heart failure with a thickened left ventricle that they believe was caused by a really nasty virus that went around this area about 10 years ago. It's well compensated, yay me, I do what I'm supposed to do. So I don't retain fluid or get short of breath except when I play lumberjack in the yard and then it's well earned. My cardiologist is top notch. I trust him with my life. Thanks for this timely but frightening information today.
My mother was told she had aortic stenosis and a bicuspid valve at the age of 90. How did she live that long with a bicuspid valve? They were going to replace it with TAVR procedure but she was diagnosed with kidney cancer and died at 91.
Great episode! I think I heard you say a patient with stenosis of a bicuspid aortic valve is not eligible for a TAVI. Does that mean surgical replacement is the only option? I’m early 70’s but still only mild stenosis and running 25 miles/week
My heart echo from a year+ ago says "sclerodegenerative valve disease". I got the echo because i have abnormal EKGs again and again. I do find it very hard to climb stairs. It's 2 flights to my office at work and by the time I get to the top, I have to stop to catch my breath. Am I just very out if shape (yes) or do i need another cardiac echo?
I feel I am now sympathetic for needing a TAVI however I underwent double bypass surgery for the widow maker in 2018 and my ascending Aorta is now dilated at 4.5. Am I a good candidate for a TAVI? Thanks.
I am 75+ echo showed moderate stenosis. I feel normal. Is there any estimate in the number years before I will need a new Valve----understand this is hard to answer!!
Whats your thoughts on: An 84 yr old patient in constant Afib - Symptoms are dizzy, extreme exhaustion- and also...patient has only 1 kidney. would this still be the right procedure?
Hi doctors? I'm 28 years old and have a family history of heart disease, and I've noticed that in the past maybe 2 weeks I've been noticing my chest area and left arm has a burning sensation that travels down my left arm and up the left side of my neck. Do you have any advice as to what I should do? The burning sensation comes and goes all the time
Correct us if we are wrong but we believe this procedure was first performed and invented by a French cardiologist Dr Alan Cribier in 2002 in France 🇫🇷
I have been diagnosed with aortic stenosis. First time about 6 years ago. I had an Echo cardiogram with an EKG during a stress test. O2 level was 99% at the test, ejection fraction was 66%. I have no symptoms of anything but had the test out of curiosity. I was checked again two years ago had no change. I had another Echo cardiogram this past June 2024. during another stress test. my O2 level was 98% and ejection fraction was 95%. I'm 74 YOA, is it possible that I may have had this issue for a long time and could this continue as is for some time? Some Doctors miss it unless I have them listen again or tell them the Cardiologist hears it. Diagnosis was mild stenosis
I’m 14 weeks pregnant and getting ready for my second TAVR procedure. My first tavr was in 2016 when I was 12 weeks pregnant with my first baby (now 7 yrs old). I’m now 14 weeks pregnant with my 3rd baby & my 2016 tavr is stenosed and leaking. Doctors feel it’s necessary to have another tavr to get me through this pregnancy. Please pray for me!
67 and recently diagnosed with bicuspid valve and moderate stenosis I am vegan and exercise 6 days a week cardio and weights in very good health no symptoms at this time. How to I slow down the progression best? Exercise and nutrition?
Tho I appreciate this information , I am watching due to my 3 yr old with unicuspid valve also with a leaky mitral valve . The death comments aren't helpful
This was one of your better videos. The guest cardiologist was allowed to talk. And he did talk - explained things very well; at a level that most people would understand. Not simple, just thorough. Good job on this one
Now that is a good cardiologist! He explained things so well. ❤
We agree!👍
I had an open heart surgery to fix my aortic regurgitation in 2017. It was a bovine valve which failed in only 3 years. With COVID my diagnosis was delayed and by the time they found my valve was failing my heart was at 25% efficacy. I had a TAVR and it’s been fine so far 👍🏻❤👍🏻
You did not mention Ross procedures. My son had one 29 years ago and now will have to again have open heart and will get a mechanical valve. Cutting through scar tissue is riskier.
Thankyou for this informative video! I’m a 78 year old female who had a TAVR procedure this past April. I came home the next day wearing a ZIO patch for 14 days to make sure that my heart was beating normal. I have been going to cardio rehab which I find to be really helpful. The program runs for 12 weeks and there are different classes you can attend. I’m hoping to live until I’m 100! I feel good and I don’t consider myself old! I enjoy watching your videos, they are very informative. Keep up the good work!
Father-in-law had TAVR at 90+ years of age. He did need a pace maker later but went from critical care to golf course in just over a month. Miraculous development in medical procedure not just for life saving but for quality of life.
I'm 75 and had a TAVR 7 months ago and it has been wonderful! For a year prior I would get a bad headache upon any exertion but have not had a headache since and I exercise 6 days a week. None of my doctors had ever heard of the headache symptom
I am having TAVR in 2 days, have severe Aortic stenosis. Innocent heart murmur for 82 years. Asymptomatic. Thank you for this video!
@KayNyswonger How are you doing now?
I had aortic stenosis. Back in 2015, I had the TAVR PROCEDURE DONE! I went home the very next day!!
Here it is 2024, and I'm still going strong!! I Praise the Lord that this type of procedure was available for me. I'm so thankful that I didn't have my rib cage cracked open in order to put a new aortic valve in. Thank God for the knowledge these Surgeons have. They went about placing the new valve in by going thru my leg!
Sort of like where I've had a heart catherization.
There is no such thing as a lord
All of your videos are so informative, and you don't speak over my head, but in terms that I can understand. I had an Edwards TAVR procedure done 2 years ago at age 75. You are totally right, I had no idea how much I had slowed down until after my TAVR. I had SO much more energy. What amazed me most about the procedure was the fact that I was awake all the time they were inside my heart while implanting the new valve. It was painless and took less than an hour. I went home the next day. I also saw on the internet somewhere (so it must be true) that Arnold Schwarzenegger and Mick Jagger have had TAVR procedures.
Arnold Schwarzenegger also had a ross procedure 30 years ago
I have been diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis from my last echo a few weeks ago, been monitoring this for a few years with my cardiologist, and just beginning the journey to fix it, I am 73 years old, 5'11" tall and weigh 172 pounds and in excellent shape, so I am hoping that the TAVR will work for me, we shall see, but this video was a great help to me, thank you.
shocking what age are you ???
I am going to have the TAVR surgery next Wednesday and have lots of hope for a great experience as you have all been talking about. I am almost 85 so feel good having this done. Seems to be more common to have this done. Thank you all for the glowing results😊.
🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
🙏🙏🙏🕊
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As a recipient of a TAVI procedure I can honestly say that I feel very lucky. I did wind up with a pacemaker and it appears to be working out just fine. The confirmation that TAVI within TAVI is now within the realm of possibilities gives me great comfort. The only issue omitted from this video was lifestyle and the cause of aortic stenosis. Otherwise a great video. Thanks for covering this issue.
My mother-in-law had the TAVOR procedure done. I took her to follow up appointments with her surgeon every three months. There were about a half dozen patients who all had the procedure done at the same time because we all got to recognize each other. We went to the surgeon’s office, then down 3 floors to get echocardiograms. Then we’d meet again in the hospital lobby waiting for the valet parking folks to retrieve our vehicles. I was just a driver but I spoke to a patient who had a very satisfactory result. He said he was back to his old self, feeling great. He asked how my mother-in-law was doing post-procedure. I told him that she was one of the unfortunate ones who didn’t show much improvement. She died a few years later, but 93 is a long life.
rip to your mother in law
I'm 73 and live in Texas and watch most of your episodes. I had coronary bypass surgery in 2001 and a mitral valve repair in 2008. and have been struggling with Congestive Heart Failure for more than 10 years. I sincerely appreciate the information you are putting out there for us.
What has been your diet in the last 20-30 years?
I had open heart surgery almost two years ago now. I must say it was a new lease on life. Wouldn't be writing this without it. I'm able to exercise every day and feel totally normal. I'm 73 years young.😃
I'm now 72, had TAVI 2 years ago and it was great! I also have COPD and my aortic stenosis was severe so my O2 levels were bad, had to stop 3 times to catch my breath walking 1 1/2 blocks to the bus stop! No issues for me at all, no pacemaker,or any other negatives, if you have aortic stenosis and are eligible for TAVI I highly recommend it, I had the procedure one day, went home the next day, and the day after that had a few pints at the pub with friends! I had some tenderness in the groin but very mild, not painful or uncomfortable, again if you have the TAVI option go for it!
Wow thanks for sharing!
It amazes me all the things that can be done to help people. Don't have this issue but it was fascinating listening to all that can be done. Dr Heffernan is awesome at explaining things.
My Dr. moved to the states 32 yrs ago. Haven't had a Dr. Since. So you guys are my adopted Dr's. I've been watching you a few yrs now. Now I'm 67 and need a doc. Most of the public walk in clinics don't want you there for a full physical which is what I would love. Wife died at a young age so live alone. I try to follow your advice. Thank you for your channel. I try to follow most of your advice. I don't eat the whole cow now.
Perfect explanations, excellent information delivered by the cardiologist with confidence. I hope I don’t ever need a TAVI but amazing development of a heart treatment.
As are both of you, Doctor Heffernan is a Gent and a Scholar. Such a kind, thoughtful pleasant demeanour and great explanation. Thank you !
A very good explanation on this procedure, thank you. My husband is going for a cat scan tomorrow and we will see what and when he should get it done.
My mom had a pig valve. Lived it long life. Thank you for the explanation! So interesting!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you so much for this video! My Mom is going through all the steps to hopefully have the Tavi done instead of open heart. I needed to understand the why and the how so the education you provided was absolutely perfect!!
Thanks to Talking with Docs.. Grateful for your professional vlogging on these medical questions. Long time fan, keep up the channel's vlogging; it's great!
I’ve just come home from having a new valve. It’s a miracle and my wife was on the treadmill looking for something to watch on her iPad and this popped up and we are both super happy about what was available to do for me and you guys did a great job and explaining it we saw a picture valve & looks beautiful.
Thank you docs for doing this video…….you not only made it incredibly interesting, but you demonstrated how 3 highly intelligent and educated professionals can work so well together without egos getting involved, or talking over one another. You’re a credit to your field, and thanks for being so dedicated that you put in all that work to become proficient in a very demanding and complex vocation that helps so many people. God bless you guys!
Wow, just wow and I say that as a multi stent, carotid endarterectomy recipient!!! You guys are amazing!
I am 54 and being monitored. Thank you for the information. It is a wake up call to me and is informing me as well.
I will have the TAVR procedure in one week. I am 90 years old and feel much better after watching your video. Thank You and God Bless.
You can do it! Glad we could help!
This was a very interesting video!
I learned so much and appreciate the fact that we have improved medical procedures drastically in this century!
You two are so good at explaining things and your guests are as terrific as you!
I hope I'm never in a position to need this procedure but I actually feel better by just knowing about it.
You're doing a great job!👍
Thanks for sharing another great video!
Brilliant. SO encouraging.Thank you! (Got calcified Aortic valve. In my 70's. Defo want TAVI/TAVR!)
My 88 year old father had this procedure on 10/23/24. He did wonderfully. He wanted to go home the same night.
Thank you for this video! I am a 72-year-old woman in Ontario with a severely stenotic BAV. It has been almost a year since it was diagnosed and I hope to have treatment soon. Whether that will be TAVI or open-heart, I don’t know yet. Your video was very informative for me. One thing I would suggest though, is discussion of one of the worst symptoms for me. That is edema. My feet and legs are always swollen and sometimes painful. Diuretics offer some relief but I can only take them occasionally for other reasons.
I’m 74, just had ECHO. Two leaking heart valves & aortic stenosis, but asymptomatic so far. Otherwise very healthy & active. Hopefully I won’t need TAVI any time soon. Great video, so informative.. thank you!
Hello, 77 here and same exactly as yourself! Mr Cardio Doctot wants to see me in a year? Does that sound right? Tx Patrick
I was diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis with a bicuspid aortic valve. While doing the work up for TAVR my CT scan discovered a growth on my left lower lung lobe. Biopsy revealed a rare slow growing cancer which my Thoracic surgeon felt he could do robotic surgery to remove the left lower lobe and felt that would be all the cancer treatment I would need. But he felt I was high risk for a heart attack during surgery so he recommended I have the Aortic valve replacement first. My cardiac team had a meeting and decided that I could have a successful TAVR even though I had a bicuspid aortic valve. I had the TAVR with no complications at age 68 and then had the robotic lung surgery a couple months later. No complications with the lung surgery either. I am so blessed to be healthy again and follow up visits show that all is well with my heart and lung. 😊
Glad you could share
I had my aortic valve replaced with a bovine valve in 2016 at age 59. Full procedure with the sternum cracked open. It was 3 months before I could lay down to sleep. My surgeon at the time told me that by the time that valve would need service/replacement again, the procedure would probably less invasive. Sounds like he was correct.
Hope you are doing well!
@@TalkingWithDocs Thank you. Just buffed out my Mustang GT today. Only a couple of rest breaks needed. I follow my doctors' recommendations, take my meds and get seen often. Thanks to docs and science, I'm still here. Life is great!
Excellent information for me. My aortic stenosis has progressed to severe. Have had all the diagnostic procedures, including a CAT scan and see the surgeon on Monday to decide TAVR or SVR. Only symptoms at age 76 is need for naps. This video was a great education. Thanks
I had open-heart surgery eleven years ago at the age of 67. They installed a mechanical valve and while inside they did four bypasses. I had no symptoms. I'm now 78 and continue to have an excellent quality of life. Warfarin every day, Metoprolol and a few others and a recent ablation for arythmia. The cardiologists follow me but I still have no symptoms. Life is good thanks to modern cardiovascular practice.
Thank you for explaining it all so well, Doctors. I am due for one in January but have been having other health issues for the past 7 year.. May God help me dealing with everything ( as he has been doing). And I thank him for the doctors also.❤
Tavi a few weeks before turning 74, due to rheumatic fever at age 15 and a bicuspid valve. I felt 1000% better immediately after surgery! No issues whatsoever. If you need it, do it!
love the good humor with the docs
I was diagnosed with severe aortic valve stenosis in March of this year (2024). I had a follow up with a stress test, but it didn’t show anything significant. I just had my 6 month eco and still shows significant aortic valve stenosis, but no change from the previous one. I am not exhibiting any of the symptoms, other than heart palpations from worrying about it and anxiety. If I don’t think about it , I feel fine and I like to stay active. I have another echo scheduled another 6 months from now.
65-70%
How old are you because I have the same exact issue with no symptoms, can you tell me what you've done so far, or are you going to replace your aortic valve, ty please reply.
@ i will be 72 in March. I am still symptom free. I am working part time (3 days a week). I recently bought a bike so I can stay active on the days I’m not working. I just ride it around the neighborhood so I feel like I’m not putting too much strain on my heart. I have my own pool and I swim every day in the summer. I have my next echo the day before my birthday. Hope everything is still OK (all things considered). How are you doing?
@aliceyoung5240 im doing great. I walk 3 miles 5 days a week on my treadmill at 3.3 mph, im 65 years old. My heart doctor says I have a server aortic valve, but again, I have no symptoms, just going to watch it with follow-ups. Ty for replying please keep me informed i will do the same, 🙏🙏🙏🙏 P.S how long have you been diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis.
@@coach2208 glad to know you’re doing well! I was diagnosed a year ago.
My mom is having this procedure we tomorrow in Stonybrook university hospital in NY 😢 praying my mom will be much better.
Let me know how it goes. I also have a family member there at that same hospital, and they are deciding in the next couple of days, which aortic valve procedure to do
I had open heart in 2006 to replace a bicuspid aortic valve and fix an aortic aneurism, very painful and long recovery. In 2019 I had a TAVI to replace the replacement valve and got upset with the anesthetist because he wouldn't let me walk back to my room after the procedure. :)
Oh man
Great interview! Thank you. Now a video on what causes the stenosis😊
❤thank you for your time and a great discussion.❤
Very welcome
Thank you Doctors for the important information
An important point about valves is that related heart failure is fully reversable after a new valve.
Yes it is
My husband had the tavi procedure with a bovine replacement at age 78, but he did not do well. He seemed to have stroke symptoms the day after but they said there were no signs of stroke. The nurse called me at home to ask if there was any mental impairment previously, and there was not, but he couldn't remember things she had just told him. He never really recovered from that mental confusion and researching that, I found that this result in seniors was not unknown after surgeries. He passed away on December 23rd last year after two years, and one of the symptoms he had at the end was edema in his legs, so his heart was failing. The death certificate stated heart.
He also had stage one Parkinson's, diagnosed at the same time as his heart issue, but his mental decline was sudden and immediate post tavi. He was 80 when he passed. We were together for 60 years. The procedure gave him 2 years but his quality of life was not really improved. I'm still grateful to have had him with us for those 2 years.
I miss him so much, not a day goes by that I don't think of him and the great Dad he was to us kids. Even with his own health issues, he was always there concerned about my own health problems. I Love you Mom.💗
@@noidnomis 💖
Very good video excellent guest !
Excellent presentation. Thank you.
Great explanation and information. Thank you.
Honourable memtion to Dr. John Webb, a canadian pioneer in Vancouver with TAVI valves.
Very cool
Had a tissue Aortic valve put in and two bypasses 1/12/12.
In Sept 2022 had heart attack due to bypasses occluding . They were scented and also had second aortic valve put in by Tavr . Doing good two years later on medication prescribed.
Thank you dr's for the full explanation.
So nice of you
What a nice doctor!
Great video...keep it up Dr's
Thank you for this great information!
Very helpful video. Great cardiologist!
Great episode Docs !!!!!! Thx.
Glad you enjoyed it
Thanks for this very informative video!
Lots of very good information!
I had Rhematic fever when I was ten, so I knew I would need a valve replacement sooner or later. They have been checking me for years, they have decided on the TAVR because I have CEDS as they said it was the safest option, having the procedure early next year,, thanks for sharing
Thanks, Very Informative !
Glad it was helpful!
Wow! Very informative .. thanks
Thank you, great information.
I’m surprised you didn’t mention a third option for heart surgery. I was born with a bicuspid aortic valve and in 2023 at age 66 I had a minimally invasive surgery at the University of Miami hospital with Dr. Joseph Lemelas for an aortic valve replacement. This procedure is called the “Miami Method “ and the surgeon uses a small inscision on the upper right chest and long tools to replace the valve. No opening of the sternum, much quicker recovery time and less pain. Mine is a bovine valve. This type of surgery is being done all over the US at various hospitals. I’m not sure about Canada.
So interesting. I had a friend with this. First time ive understood it.
Dr. Heffernan should teach. He is very knowledgeable and his explanations are very clear. I wish you were my cardiologist. Move to the USA.
Thank you good information my wife his on waiting list for that big valve be done in London ontario
Have you done videos on how to read and understand your blood test results? Could be very helpful.
Question. How often should you have your valve checked (ultrasound) after you have TAVR?
thank you docs
Welcome 🙏
Had a bicuspid Aortic valve and it was replaced when I was 59. Then after five years it got a tear and had to be replaced again. They tried using the less invasive but couldn't get all the way to my heart and had to fall back to the traditional and crack open my sternum. 2nd one they didn't even try.
Hope you are ok now
In 2012 while still in middle age I had open heart aortic valve replacement. The porcine valve was defective and had to be replaced immediately. Seven years later that valve needed to be replaced. This time I was a candidate for TAVR. The work-up was more extensive than Dr Hefferman describes but seemed to go well. At the last meeting of the team I was told that TAVR was no longer an option. A cogent reason was never given. After watching this video I wonder if the problem wasn't that the two previous trimmings of the aorta did not leave enough clearance for the coronary arteries. My doctors are hinting that another valve replacement could be sooner than later. I guess I will learn the answer then.
My 85yr old father went through TAVR surgery in early June 2019. We did all the pretest to make sure he qualified. CT scan, chest x-ray, a stress test etc. One day after surgery, he went into AFib. Immediately rushed him to the hospital and the next day they put in a pacemaker.Two weeks later he was hospitalized. His oxygen saturation levels were extremely low. The lowest he got was 82. His CO2 levels were off the charts. He was eventually moved to ICU and had to endure ABG's every 2 hours. He went home from the hospital on hospice..By the last week of June he had passed away. My doctor's mother had the same surgery the month before my father. She died the month after my dad because her lungs filled up with fluid so bad. I know of three people in 2019 that died after they had TAVR surgery. Hindsight is 20/20, but if my dad had not had the surgery and would have lived 3 years longer at least we would have had him with us. We miss him everyday.
So sorry to hear this. It certainly is not without risk.
Thank you so much for this explanation. I think you are talking about me. I am 74 and a little over 2 yrs ago experienced a “brown out” while riding in the car with my husband. I was in the hospital overnight and that’s when they found out that my aortic valve “doesn’t close all the way”. Does that sound familiar? The cardiologist said they wouldn’t do anything unless they needed to????
I will be scheduled for TAVR this year. However, I am rethinking my agreement to have this procedure since I learned there is about a 2% risk of the procedure generating a stroke as a result of calcium flakes or chips getting into the blood stream and winding up in the brain, Two percent (which is probably understated) risk is 2% too much. Please note, my cardiologist didn't mention this to me when discussing the procedure with me. I had to go out to Mayo Clinic website to discover this interesting little fact.. . .Maybe the risk of a stroke during surgery overrides the possibility of three years more life.
Yikes. In February my cardiologist ran tests after I was having palpitations for several weeks and I was a bit more light headed than usual. Decided I was basically fine, the palpitations had stopped and less incidence of lightheadedness. He mentioned that I had a very mild aortic stenosis but that it had changed slightly from the previous echo. So he referred me for a test, said if there was a "problem" with the valve it was an easy fix. Really downplayed all of it, no sense of urgency from them. Said the testing facility would call me in a week or two and if not to give them a call. Still no call. I had looked at the paperwork. The code was for a TAVR/TAVI evaluation. 😮 Wasn't mentioned to me. I got really busy with other stuff, as one does, and just kept forgetting to call. After watching this I'll be calling Monday. I have heart failure with a thickened left ventricle that they believe was caused by a really nasty virus that went around this area about 10 years ago. It's well compensated, yay me, I do what I'm supposed to do. So I don't retain fluid or get short of breath except when I play lumberjack in the yard and then it's well earned. My cardiologist is top notch. I trust him with my life. Thanks for this timely but frightening information today.
My mother was told she had aortic stenosis and a bicuspid valve at the age of 90. How did she live that long with a bicuspid valve? They were going to replace it with TAVR procedure but she was diagnosed with kidney cancer and died at 91.
Great episode! I think I heard you say a patient with stenosis of a bicuspid aortic valve is not eligible for a TAVI. Does that mean surgical replacement is the only option? I’m early 70’s but still only mild stenosis and running 25 miles/week
excellent information on this. Does life style issues contribute to this, or is it strictly your genetics?
Yes lifestyle contributes but we understand its role less for valvular disease
My heart echo from a year+ ago says "sclerodegenerative valve disease". I got the echo because i have abnormal EKGs again and again. I do find it very hard to climb stairs. It's 2 flights to my office at work and by the time I get to the top, I have to stop to catch my breath. Am I just very out if shape (yes) or do i need another cardiac echo?
Hmmm hard to say. Worth a chat with your doc
I feel I am now sympathetic for needing a TAVI however I underwent double bypass surgery for the widow maker in 2018 and my ascending Aorta is now dilated at 4.5.
Am I a good candidate for a TAVI? Thanks.
Hi Thomas. That is a question best answered by your surgeon rather than us. Best of luck
Thank you for this info. I'm a bicuspid in Canada. It's good to get Canadian info.
I am 75+ echo showed moderate stenosis. I feel normal. Is there any estimate in the number years before I will need a new Valve----understand this is hard to answer!!
Yes almost impossible to give a number sorry!
Whats your thoughts on: An 84 yr old patient
in constant Afib -
Symptoms are dizzy, extreme exhaustion- and also...patient has only 1 kidney.
would this still be the right procedure?
Hi doctors? I'm 28 years old and have a family history of heart disease, and I've noticed that in the past maybe 2 weeks I've been noticing my chest area and left arm has a burning sensation that travels down my left arm and up the left side of my neck. Do you have any advice as to what I should do? The burning sensation comes and goes all the time
Talk to your doc. You need ECG to see if you have myocardial ischemia.
Thanks to Israel for developing the life saver tavr
Correct us if we are wrong but we believe this procedure was first performed and invented by a French cardiologist Dr Alan Cribier in 2002 in France 🇫🇷
I'm having surgery for aortic stenosis soon. I love this cardiologist but felt the other two doctors were quite flippant in their attitude.
am 35 severe stenosis. can i wait until the last minute to do these procedures? part of me just wants to call it quiets iv had a good life... ....
Until I can get appt for my tavi, any help for relief of shortness of breath? Oxygen? Inhaler?
I have been diagnosed with aortic stenosis. First time about 6 years ago. I had an Echo cardiogram with an EKG during a stress test. O2 level was 99% at the test, ejection fraction was 66%. I have no symptoms of anything but had the test out of curiosity. I was checked again two years ago had no change. I had another Echo cardiogram this past June 2024. during another stress test. my O2 level was 98% and ejection fraction was 95%. I'm 74 YOA, is it possible that I may have had this issue for a long time and could this continue as is for some time? Some Doctors miss it unless I have them listen again or tell them the Cardiologist hears it. Diagnosis was mild stenosis
I’m 14 weeks pregnant and getting ready for my second TAVR procedure. My first tavr was in 2016 when I was 12 weeks pregnant with my first baby (now 7 yrs old). I’m now 14 weeks pregnant with my 3rd baby & my 2016 tavr is stenosed and leaking. Doctors feel it’s necessary to have another tavr to get me through this pregnancy. Please pray for me!
Is this same as aortic ulcer? I have one that is 7mm.
❤
67 and recently diagnosed with bicuspid valve and moderate stenosis I am vegan and exercise 6 days a week cardio and weights in very good health no symptoms at this time. How to I slow down the progression best? Exercise and nutrition?
Ask for calcium deposit reducing meds to keep valve cusps free of calcifications.
If we met this surgery,How many days it will take to come conscious....
Tho I appreciate this information , I am watching due to my 3 yr old with unicuspid valve also with a leaky mitral valve . The death comments aren't helpful
Can the Surgeons also use like heart stents for these type of conditions, as well?
The .minimally invasive TAVI/TAVRvis on a stent navigated via your leg femoral.