If you are afraid, talk to your doctor about the procedure, they'll be able to offer you all the reassurance you need, and at least they know enough about you to explain to the procedure thoroughly and what it involves in your case. Although mitral valve replacement surgery varies depending on your condition to begin with, it's generally a very routine procedure and you should feel much better eventually! The tube that breathes for you is taken out after you wake up. Please tell me how you're doing and contact me if you want to ask me anything. Delancey.

I see you posted this a little while ago and may have already had the surgery. I had open heart surgery 3 years ago to repair a hole and a split valve. I was 32 I am now nearly 36 and unfortunately now need a mitral valve replacement. All of this is due to an undiagonsed congenital condition. The surgery is ok and I was also most scared of being tubed more than anything. It is all fine and you will not be aware of it. Please contact me if you have not had the surgery yet and of course if you have had it you might be able to reassure me about the replacement. My email is nicola.Thomas12@btopenworld.Com