Is it common to develop moderate aortic stenosis less than 1 year after valve replacement?

Question

I had my open heart surgery in Jan of this year and now my echo's are showing moderate aortic stenosis. I'm still having chest pains, shortness of breath etc. I spent 9 hours in the ER a few days ago and that's what they found moderate aortic stenosis. I just can't stand the thought of another surgery; even though since I have a tissue valve, I know I would need surgery in the future, but if this stenosis progresses to severe I know it will put me having surgery allot sooner. I'm just wondering if anyone have dealt with this kind of problem after OHS.

Answer 1

Tissue valve degenerates faster in younger individuals. Don't be so scared. It need not progress fast. Even individuals with severe aortic stenosis are pulling on by reducing intensity of activities. Your doctor will give the appropriate advice.

Answer 2

I have a similar heart condition. I was born with TGH (transposition of the great arteries) with a VSD and pulmonary stenosis. Basically, no it's not common. I had surgery four years ago and am doing pretty okay. The first year after surgery I felt fantastic, then after that I started feeling realyl tired all the time again and ever since that my health has been going (slowly) down hill. I have a tissue valve too. it's supposed to take ten or so years before it will need to be replaced. I remember having cardiac catheterizations a bunch of times before my last surgery so I would think that it does get clogged up a bit before that ten years is up. Did you have a cardiologist come to the ER? Doctors who work in the ER aren't heart specialists so it's possible that they gave a wrong diagnosis. Go see your cardiologist.