I am a 58 (almost 59) year old grandmother of 11, who recently celebrated the four year anniversary of two successful aortic aneurysm surgeries that were performed 20 days apart. I was fortunate in that I knew of my aneurysm and had been monitoring it for 14 months prior to surgery.
The dissection, however, took place months before my surgery and I walked around like that until a follow-up cat scan showed a dissection of 6.5 cm. Within a week, my doctor arranged with the cardiovascular surgeon at Sequioa Hospital in Redwood City, CA to meet with me. I took all my medical records and was admitted into the hospital the next day.
I feel very blessed that I had excellent doctors and support from my family. And I would be happy to share more of my survivor story with any of you that have an aortic aneurysm or have a family member that needs encouragement.
Update 9 Jan 2001
Over 5 years ago, I had a successful surgery for an ascending and descending aortic aneurysm repair. Recovery was slow and tedious at times, but I returned to work part time after 6 months. I have had all the monitoring tests done at regular intervals. My latest echo shows that I have a dissection of the right carotid artery. I am scheduled for an MRA and CT Scan for next week. My cardiologist says there is no urgency, since he feels this is a new finding.
Neither I or any of my family members remember this dissection being discussed during all the pre and post op meetings. I am in shock. My first thought was to reach out to this group of supportive patients and families, who have perhaps face similar discoveries in the process of ongoing medical supervision. Anyone out there who can give me an idea if this is normal? If not, I'll just ask for your prayers.
God bless all of you and your families who face daily frightening diagnosis. My next step is to contact my surgeon for his opinion. Thanks again for this support system. It helps to write all this down.
Update 1 Feb 2001
After a month of tests, waiting for test results and several consultations, I am HAPPY to report that all is well. The dissection, aka tear, in my right carotid artery has been there since my dissection took place 6 years ago. My comment was, "my veins may tear, but they are tough." The flow of blood to the brain is fine. Forgetfulness happens, but that COULD be due to "senior moments".
My blood pressure has been elevated. However, my doctors and I think it is because of a substitute of a generic brand of medication. That was discovered quite by accident. I am back on my original Beta Blocker with an additional BP medication. I will be more diligent in monitoring my BP since that is the recommended treatment to keep the dissection at it's present size.
My thanks to all of you for your prayers of encouragement and support. This site is loaded with loving, caring people. I feel blessed to be a member of this exclusive group.
May God continue to provide all of you with good health and good doctors.