Sunday, March 13, 2011

PFO Closure This Week...

Well, this week I had another surgery. Hopefully the last! It was to close up a flap in my heart that did not close when I was little like it supposed to. I guess everyone has a natural opening between the left and right atriums when they are born. Then, the flap closes up before 2 years of age. If it doesn't close, then your blood travels between the atriums even when it is not supposed to. That means that unfiltered blood can go back into your body because it didn't ever go to your lungs to be oxygenated.

This animated video shows the procedure pretty well. I have a little bit different device though. I have the Gore helix device. Ironically, Gore is a brand that also makes guitar strings. Craig is endorsed by Gore so he gets free strings. My Gore "strings" weren't free. But, now I have musical heart strings!



Now, I am just tired and bruised. But, recovery is going well. Much better than other surgeries. I think the tonsilectemy still wins as being the worst!

4 comments:

Thelissa said...

I watched the video. Very interesting. Now if the bruises will heal, you'll be in one piece again.:)

Heather said...

I knew you were getting this done, but i didn't know you already did! I need to call you and see if there is anything I can do. Love you and I hope you have a quick recovery!

Anonymous said...

that's clever...you're gore strings weren't free:)

Alena said...

I'm glad it went well . . . I remember how horrible the tonsilectomy was :( We should get together SOON!!!!