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Bill W. Prospective Patient

LVAD Implant

Did any of you get you implant done through the left side ribs?

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Matthew B.

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. 

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In reply to by Matthew B.

Bill W.

My testing is all done. Just need a date. They are going in through my ribs as a 3rd sternotomy would likely be fatal. doc says he won't even consider that option. Should shorten recovery time.

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In reply to by Bill W.

Matthew B.

Bill I hope you get a date soon. Have to love those conversations with the doctors. Mine told me; "Well if you make it thru the first year, then you will do fine"  So I am just going to close my eyes and hang on for the first year of this process and then everything will be just fine. 

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Mariza M.

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

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Emily W.

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

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Anonymous

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

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Donald H.

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

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Donald H.

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