[eastforker]

I think I am more scared of the post op then I am of the actual operation.

[Rockingham]

Some time ago, a friend of mine had an even more extensive operation to replace an aortic valve and his aortic chest artery. His recovery required lifestyle changes -- no more smoking and get regular exercise by walking to work. He recovered without physical or mental impairment and resumed his duties as a state supreme court justice. Years later he died -- of cancer.

In sum, fear of major surgery is normal, but in modern America it is quite good and usually has uneventful recoveries.

[Chickensoup]

My friend is looking at a valve replacement. Going to be a closed procedure through veins. Is that an option?

[ballplayer]

It’s normal,not knowing,but I did not have any problems after my quadruple bypass heart surgery,was not in any pain,you have to begin activity with help from the nurses of course,was sponged bath in mornings,walked with tubes attached,ate very little.
It’s normal to be nervous but had best care from Cardiac doctors from Yale New Haven and staff at VAHospital New Haven Ct.