[lennyann]

Hi everyone,
I am new to the forum. My dad is a very young (active and agile prior to surgery)80 year old. Had bicuspid aortic valve and it was failing. Had bovine replacecment June of 07. His ejection fraction was 40% just prior to surgery and is now 35%. He has signs of CHF, edema, shortness of breath, fatigue, weakness, etc. After his surgery and a very difficult recovery, his state of physical health has not improved to even that of just before his surgery. Has had a series of tests including an echo and now is scheduled for a transesophogeal echo to confirm and clarify his heart condition. Has anyone been in a similar situation of seemingly a replacement failure so soon after surgery and can you give me any ideas what to expect? More surgery? Medication? No treatment at all? HELP!
Thank you,
Ann