Hey newmg,

Welcome to the group! The dicision to have the surgery is a very scary one indeed. I had symptoms for almost 3 years before I was diagnosed in 01. My doctors wanted me to have it right away, but I waited just about a year and had a full sternal in Nov. 02. I started to see small improvements after about 2years, but it took 4 years to see the full benefits. Research as much as you can and ask lots of questions. Does your neuro know you are having chest pains? If not, you might want to call and let him/her know. They can be scary too. Take care and keep posting!

Hugs,
Pat