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Ellen E. Caregiver

LVAD speed

Just wanting to know what is the average speed for LVAD?  Doctor said goal was 5300 - 5400.  My husband was up to 5200 but drs have decreased it several times.  His surgery was May 2, 2023 so he's still in the hospital.

Thank you for your input.

 

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Lee S.

I'm at 5700 and have been for the last 19 months!!!

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In reply to by Lee S.

Lynn M.

How do u know the speed and is it better to be a high number?

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In reply to by Lynn M.

Sandra K.

Hi Lynn, my understanding is if the speed is higher (7000-9000), It is helping your heart more than if it is set at 5500..

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In reply to by Lynn M.

Ellen E.

Your LVAD team should be able to tell you where the speed is set.  You can see the speed on the display on your controller.  My husband just got the Heartmate 3 LVAD.  His speed is currently set at 4900 but will fluctuate between 4900 and 5000.  They have adjusted the set speed several times in the hospital.

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In reply to by Lynn M.

Sandra K.

Lynn M., There is a button on the controller that shows speed, PMI, I forget what the other 2 are right now. (on the Heartmate III). I don't usually press to check those unless my VAD team asks for them.

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Deannie S.

I am at 6000 for the past couple of years.

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Sandra K.

Hi Ellen, I'm not sure what speed they started me at in the hospital but I know they kept decreasing it until it was where I needed it. My speed is set at 5400 since I came home from the hospital. That was August 2021. Everyone is different in how much they need the lvad to help is my understanding, so I'm not sure if there is an 'average' speed setting. I think they set it high and adjust it from there according to what the person needs.