63-year-old Lviv resident Volodymyr lived for six years with pronounced breathlessness, which for a long time was linked to lung problems. After having had coronavirus, it became increasingly difficult for him to breathe. He received treatment in different hospitals, but a precise diagnosis could not be made.
Over time, the man’s condition deteriorated sharply: due to severe shortness of breath he could no longer walk or lie down normally, he slept half-sitting up, and developed swelling. In a serious condition, the patient was admitted to the University Hospital in Lviv.
Examinations at the hospital showed that the cause of his long-standing complaints was critical aortic valve stenosis. His heart was working at the limit of its capacity, and his ejection fraction was only about 15%.
To stabilise the patient, cardiologist and head of the Heart and Vascular Clinic at the University Hospital, Dmytro Besh, first performed balloon aortic valvuloplasty. This procedure served as a “bridge” to a more extensive operation, eased the strain on the heart and made it possible to prepare Volodymyr for the next stage of treatment. On the very first night after the procedure, for the first time in a long while, the man was able to sleep lying down.
The next step was for cardiac surgeon Andriy Ratych to carry out aortic valve replacement and tricuspid valve repair. After the operation, his cardiac function improved significantly: the ejection fraction rose to 45%.
During the most difficult period, Volodymyr was supported by his wife and two daughters, who helped him overcome his fear of surgery. Following successful surgery and several weeks of rehabilitation, the patient is preparing to return home to his family.
“I thank the specialists. I thank God that my life was saved”