Post op care

Hi, I wish you and your husband all the best during this period. My dad had his Lvad placed Aug 15th. His nutritional status sounds like your husband's. His wt before surgery was only 127. He was weak to the point that talking exhausted him much less walking. We are riding the roller coaster with him, always hoping for the best. Is your husband able to eat yet? If so, boost high calorie drink, puddings... would be great for him. If he is NPO, then maybe they could run a nasal gastric tube for nutrients.

I also had a lot of trouble initially gaining weight after my LVAD implant. After reading more about my medications, I asked my cardiologist to take me off of Protonix (don't know if he is on this, but it is a common drug). After being removed, my weight increased over 10 pounds in two weeks. It might be something you want to look into.

Thanks for replying, he is on nutrional supplements, still looks bad but says he feels ok. I am told bedsore went from 7cm by 7cm to 4cm size. That is good news. He has started small walks, tires easily, but understandable. Thanks for you advise. Riding a roller coaster would be great!!!!!

Thanks, just told my husband last night to ask for a list of his meds, he needs to start learning everything he is taking and why. Will see if protonix is on the list, that is interesting. I know he needs to put some muscle back on him. He will eventually but hard seeing him like this.

Started learning care of drive line and his power monitor. How long before you felt comfortable with all involved. A lot to take in!!!!

Thanks again for your input, greatly appreciated....

I lost about 53 pounds pre and post surgery. I was just skin and bones with no energy. I'm amazed that PT was able to get me to walk in the hospital. I would stay away from all sugary foods and non-vegetable carbohydrates and try to pack on the weight with high protein meals. I added Whey Protein Powder to my home made yogurt every morning (and sometimes evening too) to boost my intake.