Today was the day for all of Joe’s appointments. We wanted to let you know what we learned and
what we still need to know.
The cardiovascular surgeon, Dr. Streitman, was great. We
both liked him. He wasn’t hurried, he took time and answered our questions. We
so appreciate a doctor who doesn’t just run in and run out.
The echocardiogram that Joe had back at the end of March
indicated that his aortic valve was at .9 pressure across or through the valve
(I think that is how he explained it… not the size of the opening but the
pressure across the valve (or through it).
Anything less than 1.0 is considered critical and that is why the red
flag was waived and the catheterization was scheduled quickly. Our cardiologist’s ARNP is the one who told
us the TAVR procedure might be necessary.
The catheterization was done, and the aortic valve was
showing 1.1 – 1.2 which pulled Joe out of the critical category. There is still aortic valve stenosis, but we
have time now to do more testing, work with a pulmonary doctor (lungs) and
determine just when surgery will happen.
We were thinking the TAVR was a great procedure that would
allow us to avoid open heart surgery, but Dr. Streitman explained that the TAVR
and the artificial valve has a short life.
Good for older patients who can’t withstand open heart surgery. He said that Joe is a very robust (his word) 80
year old and that the open heart procedure is definitely the preferred way to
go. The artificial valve may only last
5-10 years and if it fails at 5 years, Joe may not be quite as ‘robust’ to withstand
open heart surgery.
So, we are now looking at May sometime before everything is
pulled together, tests are done and decisions can be made. We are good with this.
We appreciate your prayers and good thought and your
caring!! We feel the love.
Thank you, Terri! I suspect you must be exhausted, but still took time to bring us up to date! 'Was thinking about y'all much of today and praying for good results. "Robust" ... yes, siree!
ReplyDeleteYou have big decisions to make and it is good you are gathering information and like the doctor and that Joe is "robust".
ReplyDeleteThat's good that you liked the Dr and he was able to take time with you. Robust is a great! Hope you both are feeling better
ReplyDeleteStill praying, Terri.
ReplyDeleteGod bless.
Love the comment "robust." ! I will keep that in mind...Today I don't feel as "robust!" as I try and work out at the Gym!! Thanks for the update and prayers for continued improvement for both of you.
ReplyDelete"He said that Joe is a very robust (his word)..."
ReplyDelete:-)
It is always good to ge the complete picture before any procdure...sounds as if you are in good hands.
ReplyDeletePraying good decisions will be made. I'll be praying for you both during this stressful time.
ReplyDeleteContinuing to pray for Joe - and you!
ReplyDeleteWow! Praying for the right decisions to be made. Thankful that Joe is very "robust", and trusting that he will be able to go through this with flying colors. Praying for all of you. Thank you for the update.
ReplyDeleteI read your post and it touches me. I think because my old dad (88) also is ill. I prayed for you both, here in the early morning. sharing this song: a prayer to sing. I think you know it.
ReplyDeleteWhen I fear my faith will fail,
Christ will hold me fast;
When the tempter would prevail,
He will hold me fast.
I could never keep my hold
Through life’s fearful path;
For my love is often cold;
He must hold me fast.
He will hold me fast,
He will hold me fast;
For my Savior loves me so,
He will hold me fast.
Those He saves are His delight,
Christ will hold me fast;
Precious in his holy sight,
He will hold me fast.
He’ll not let my soul be lost;
His promises shall last;
Bought by Him at such a cost,
He will hold me fast.
For my life He bled and died,
Christ will hold me fast;
Justice has been satisfied;
He will hold me fast.
Raised with Him to endless life,
He will hold me fast
‘Till our faith is turned to sight,
When He comes at last!
So lovely and such a beautiful promise! Thanks!
DeleteThanks for the update. My husband and I are both keeping him in our prayers. Hugs, Diane
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed Aritha's comment and song. I remember my father used to sing that. It has a great message. Thank you Terri for keeping us informed on Joe's condition so we can pray. Still praying for you that you will get well soon.
ReplyDeleteWill continue to pray. Thank you for the update. Hugs and blessings
ReplyDelete