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Back in November of 1996 I had double coronary bypass surgery. I was okay for about nine years, but then all of a sudden I felt heaviness in my chest and shortness of breath. Even just walking down the stairs or on level ground was too much. So I went to my doctor, who sent me to a cardiologist.
They took X-rays and gave me a stress test. I didn’t pass the test. My cardiologist at Baltimore Washington Medical Center (formerly North Arundel Hospital) sent me to the University of Maryland Heart Center for additional testing. They said I had a bad aortic valve (critical aortic stenosis) which was causing all the problems. Then a cardiac surgeon got involved. He set up the surgery right away. They said they couldn’t waste any time on this.
Within two weeks — on April 15, 2005 — I had aortic valve replacement surgery.
Before the surgery, I told my surgeon that I had previously had bypass surgery and he said for this operation, he would only make a four-inch incision, using a minimally invasive approach. That was very reassuring. He said a lot had changed since I had the earlier bypass operation.
When I had the bypass I was in the hospital for a week. But for this operation, I was only in the hospital for four days. I had the surgery on a Friday and I went home on a Tuesday, just four days later. I couldn’t believe that.
After the surgery, overall, I didn’t feel any pain. I almost felt like I could just get up and walk out then. It was a wonderful thing. It was just amazing. It was a very quick recovery.
Life after Surgery: A Big Difference
The operation has made a big difference. Now I have no more shortness of breath, no heaviness in chest or pressure. I am able to walk without getting tired.
After the surgery, I just kept improving. It’s been six months now. I’m still amazed at it.
Being treated at the University of Maryland Medical Center was quite an experience. They were super, everyone was great. I call them the E team — E for Excellent.
Everyone who came into my room was friendly and had a positive outlook, even the janitorial staff. It’s a wonderful place to be. I was impressed with the hospital staff, and the entire system.
I would definitely recommend the University of Maryland Heart Center.
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