Any RVers out there have mitral valve surgery?

[reneegavin]

I realize this is a strange questions, but my hubby is most likely going to have this surgery in the next few months. I know it's a pretty lengthy recovery. The safety and success of the surgery are obviously our most important concerns. We are wondering if any of who have had this can share restrictions you had that would not allow you to camp and for how long? We are guessing chopping firewood will be off limits for quite some time, but not sure about other necessities that RVers have to do. We tow ours to various locations, so are not at a permanent site. Thanks for any insights! If this is the wrong forum, please let me know!

 

[Jackiemac]

I think with any heart procedures you can't drive or lift anything heavy for several weeks after.

You might be best to get yourselves into an RV Park close to the surgical centre so you have access to any rehabilitation facilities that should minimise the need to do much apart from recuperate and follow doctors orders.

Good luck for the operation and speedy recovery.

 

[LarsMac]

When Margo had her Mitral replaced, she was in rehab for a month. Then was in PT for a couple, three months. I think it was about five months before Doc cleared her for "Normal activity"
So, your mileage may vary, but wood chopping, snow shoveling, and heavy lifting will probably be off the table for a few months.

 

[darsben]

Minimally invasive or open chest. It makes a big difference in recovery time

 

[reneegavin]

We meet with the surgeon next week, but everything that we have read seems to recommend open chest. We definitely know that he won't be chopping wood. We just didn't know about things like leveling, emptying, sewer, etc. Wasn't even sure about being able to drive long distances. I realized that we will know more once we talk to the surgeon, but camping kind of comes with its own specific needs. We've got some big trips planned this year and my husband is trying to plan the surgery around them which may not even be possible.

 

[Jackiemac]

If he needs the op, then that should be the priority in my humble opinion.

 

[reneegavin]

Oh absolutely!! Just asking in case the recommendation is to have it say in the next year or 2. Any sense of urgency, and it will get done no matter the time.