May 17, 2010

Walters recovering from cardiac surgery

Barbara Walters, of "The View" and journalistic fame, is recovering today after undergoing cardiac surgery for an aortic valve. Serious surgery of this kind often leaves a scar on the chest area which can be diminished with silicone gel sheeting.

Walters, 80, knew about the defective valve for some time and kept the surgery a secret from her co-hosts before announcing it on-air this past week. Doctors said the surgery went well and Walters will make a full recovery.

Walters plans to recuperate over the summer before returning to the show, which she created, in the fall. She tweeted a thank you to her fans yesterday, saying she was "very touched" by their outpouring of support.

The aortic valve pumps blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The surgery to replace it carries a minimal risk, but is invasive.

The valve can wear down over time and can be detected by a patient complaining of shortness of breath or pain in the chest upon exertion. Walters said she complained of the feeling to her doctor and the condition was caught early.

Frequently, a scar is visible on the chest where the incision is made. Silicone-based scar treatment products can help mask unsightly scars. ADNFCR-3015-ID-19782445-ADNFCR

 

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