Triple Valve Bypass op this week

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4 years ago I had a heart attack (1 stent fitted) from which I recovered well I thought, but after some recent chest pains, I went to my GP and he referred me back to my cardiologist for tests. The last of those tests was a Radial Angiogram which confirmed what he suspected and as a result I now have a CABG (Coronary Artery Bypass Valve) op scheduled for this week. I'm being admitted tomorrow and my op is on Wednesday. I'm not looking forward to it one bit despite everyone telling me that these days, ops like this are almost routine... In every other respect, I'm a fit and healthy non smoking 54 year old so hopefully recovery won't be too bad or too long. I would welcome any one else's experiences on this.

Today therefore is the last 'normal' day for a while and so what better than a good long blast in my M5 on a quietish Monday morning in Hampshire. As I am unlikely to be driving for a while it seemed like a good distraction for what's coming up. And it did the trick...

Not sure what to do with the rest of the day to keep me distracted but I'm sure I'll think of something.

When I'm able I'll update with more news.

[trando]

Thanks all.

Amongst the many delights so far as part of my prep for the op tomorrow has been an (almost) full body shave which under any other circumstance would have been a lot more enjoyable!!!

Otherwise, so far it's all been pretty routine and I'm looking forward to getting to the other side.

[trando]

Operation was a complete success - I'm off the ICU ward and back in my room. At the moment it feels like I've run a marathon every time I get out of bed which I have done twice today. Generally uncomfortable but can see little bits of improvement as the hours go by. And now zzzzzzzzzzzz.

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Today is Day 2 according to the way the medics measure days post op. Not a great night last night. The machine they use to hydrate the oxygen kept me up all night. It was a bit like Chinese water totrture. Unfortunately they've taken me off the morphine as that would have about the only thing that would have got me to sleep. Out of bed now sat up in a chair although at this rate I reckon I'll last about another 10 mins before I doze off. No pain at the moment just v uncomfortable.

[trando]

Thanks and that is a really interesting point. What is important?

Day 3 and I'm feeling marginally better and of the 20 odd wires, tubes and canulas that were in me, I have 3 left, so on that basis I have to be making progress. Appetite is completely off still so food intake is hit or miss..

Back to the importance of this, it was a shock when I had an MI 4 years ago and this is no less so. I can see some adjustments coming!

[trando]

Going home today which is great news although I still feel very weak. Can't wait to sleep in my own bed!

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likesachange said:

Speedy recovery ! my dad had similar op 2 years ago and now feels that fit believes he can eat what he wants when he wants! theres no telling some people unfortunately.

fellow m5 owner

Agreed! Everything in moderation. Except cars of course.

Re the M5 - she's going to be tucked up in my garage for 6 weeks wondering what on earth I have done to her. I might have to start her from time to time but otherwise I will have to be good and wait until I'm ready before I take her out. She will be missed!