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Had a BAV repair and during surgery discovered a 4.1 aortic arch dilation by the surgeon.

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lisa31178
lisa31178

Hi  my concern is needing another open heart surgery.  My surgeon did do a follow up cat scan and measured 4.3 by 4.4 in june 2015. He first stated no heavy lifting more than a few pounds and then said to go back to my medical xray tech career which involves lifting and helping my patients on and off the table.  Should i be seeking another surgeon? And should i not be lifting.  confused and concerned

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7 Replies

  • Tez23
    Tez23 lisa31178

    Posted

    Personally I'd err on the side of caution and avoid any excessive lifting. Better to be safe than sorry. 
    • Gate_Keeper
      Gate_Keeper Tez23

      Posted

      As your work in medical imaging involves moving and handling patients, is it possible for your employer to reassign you to other duties not involving moving patients on and off the table? My triple AAA is only 3.8 and my vascular surgeon in London gave me the same advice and not to balance anything heavy on my abdomen.
    • lisa31178
      lisa31178 Gate_Keeper

      Posted

      Hi  I wish that was so.  My bosses all said no light duty, ii worked in 

            a big trauma hospital.  they did offer me a secretary position.

           A loss of  More than half my pay.   Eventually i will work in an

           urgent care facility,  patients walk in and an occasional xray is needed. Much better pay and benefits.  Thank you 

            

    • Gate_Keeper
      Gate_Keeper lisa31178

      Posted

      Fair comment. I was working in Forensic Psychiatry and had been assaulted, kicked and punched over the years, so had to give up that work completely as I couldn't take the chance of the aneurysm being touched by a violent blow. Now retired. I appreciate your anxiety.
  • maximo_jr.21795
    maximo_jr.21795 lisa31178

    Posted

    Hi Lisa,

    My cardiologist told me the same. No lifting more than 20 lbs. No strenous exercise. So it would be better to refrain from lifting.

  • lee_54830
    lee_54830 lisa31178

    Posted

    Hi Lisa

    i would certainly err on the side of caution. Prior to my surgery I was not even allowed to walk to get a newspaper, granted I was dilated by 8.8cms but I heard doctors tell others in the same situation being told not to lift anything heavier than a full kettle or saucepan.

    I wish you all the very best health in the future

  • lisa31178
    lisa31178

    Posted

    Hi I want to thank everyone for their thoughts and support.  Its comforting

          to get feedback and confirm my thoughts.  Respectfully Lisa

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