Kansas City, KS - A routine physical uncovered a life-threatening heart condition 40-year-old Per Christensen never knew he had. Despite years of medical tests for other chronic illnesses, no one had ever detected the faint heart murmur caused by a congenital bicuspid aortic valve — a condition he had lived with his entire life. After further scans showed worsening valve function, cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Todd Crawford performed a complex Ross procedure at The University of Kansas Health System, replacing Per’s damaged valve using his own pulmonary valve. Now recovering and feeling better than he expected just weeks after surgery, Per is sharing his story alongside the care team who say his case is a powerful reminder of the importance of routine preventive care.
Per Christensen, Patient
After his yearly physical, Per needed a procedure called the Ross procedure.
He explains the other issues that he knew about prior to discovering heart murmur.
He says, 12 weeks past procedure, he is now realizing how much better he feels.
He says because of the trust he had in Dr. Crawford; it was an easy yes to the procedure.
Dr. Todd Crawford, Cardiothoracic Surgeon, The University of Kansas Health System
Dr. Crawford explained the Ross procedure.
He explained how Per’s pre-existing conditions made the Ross procedure the best option.
He says he, himself, also had a heart murmur and was also diagnosed by a Nurse Practitioner.
He says the Ross procedure, a valve procedure, was the best path, because of the lower risk and longer life expectancy.
Mary Kaser, Family Nurse Practitioner, The University of Kansas Health System
Mary explains the difference between what a heart mummer and a regular heartbeat sounds like.
When she told Per, she reassured he was not going thru this alone and he had a full care team.
She explains the importance of routine yearly physical even if you feel healthy.
