LVAD Implant

Hi Bill,     I asked about that procedure last week when I met with my surgical team. (I am scheduled to have LVAD put in week of Oct12). The surgeon said that I might not be a canidate for that procedure because I already had open heart surgery once (2014). So it appears that not everyone can have the implant done the less invasive way. I am still hoping that will be an option for me but we will not know until the rest of the testing is done. 

Hi Bill,

Yes, I got my second implant done through the left side ribs, but I do not know if it was a fully implantion or they just changed the pump, that was clogged. The recover was better than the first LVAD implantation surgery, that was by sternotomy

Mariza Morgado

Brazil

My brother just recently got his LVAD put in through the left side of his ribs. It was very successful!

Hi Bill,

I don’t know if I can be of help, but I’m glad to give you information if possible. I had a Jarvik 2000 implanted through the ribs on the left side in December 2012. I survived with it until I was able to have a transplant in April 2015. However, I still have the big scar as a reminder. Perhaps techniques have changed and I shouldn’t be participating in this discussion, but if my experience can help in any way, just ask. Best wishes! Living with an LVAD is not easy, but definitely worthwhile! I’m  a living proof  of that.

Anne/ex Bionic Woman

Italy

Drive line left belly gives me constant issues. Where was previous line exit located.

Drive line left belly gives me constant issues. Where was previous line exit located.