I'll be 70 years old on 19 October 2001; I had my first Ascending Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) on 1 October 1995 and my second on 27 September 2000. I have read a lot of your E-mail experiences with AAA and have wept a lot reading these accounts. One thing keeps coming through and that is many doctors and surgeons are not only inexperienced on how to handle an AAA BUT I believe they are afraid that they may tarnish their reputation by undertaking such a delicate operation.
On August 4, 2000, during a rather routine follow up CT scan I was told that I had a second aneurysm and that I should go to a specialist in Tucson, Arizona. The next day I was transported by ambulance to the University of Arizona Hospital where I was seen by a noted heart surgeon. I had heard of him for years and you can imagine how disappointed I was when he said that IT was not too bad; that I should come back in three month to look at it again.
My wife, an RN of 20 plus years, was also not happy with this diagnosis so we called My Son (Kelly) and asked if he could call around in Phoenix, he did and suggested I contact Dr. DeValeria at the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Scottsdale. Dr. D. assured me that he had done 25 AAA's and the operation was scheduled for September 27.
A lot of what went on after that date is a little hazy. I do remember asking my wife and a good friend, Vickie Lewis, to keep copious notes on all that went on during and after the operation. This was extremely useful when I needed to jog my memory. The doctors worked hard during the 12 hour to save my life; I had a heart attack during surgery; I was on a heart lung machine for a long time. I was in the hospital for fifty-two days.
I had my six month check up and all is well except I have a tear in the lower part of my aneurysm. Dr. De Valeria put three feet of graft in me so that could be used in case they have to open me up again also they had to put in an artificial valve. My thinking process needs some more attention and my temper is not as it should be ... but I am thankful for being alive, and for the love of my wife, four children and eleven grandchildren.
By the way I am an Army retired lieutenant colonel , I was in intelligence and then I went into real estate,and became a broker with my own office. This old Kentucky man has had my share of luck; my advice is to think positive and find a good surgeon, obviously I believe DR.D is the best. I am willing to share all of my experiences; just ask! And please do not forget the power of prayer.