Mary Ann Evans
Now there are two options for terminal congestive heart patients: a heart transplant or an LVAD (left ventricular assist device). Heart transplants are virtually impossible for patients over 70 to obtain due to American insurance and hospital restrictions. The heartmate II LVAD is an electric titanium pump the size of a small pear, with ruby bearings and a driveline which extends through the chest wall to the outside of the body. The system is powered either by external lithium batteries or a power cord plugged into the wall. Thoratec’s Heartmate LVAD System is now an approved destination treatment for cardiac patients. It offers terminal patients an opportunity for extending their lives. LVAD patients are usually able to return to work, play golf, fish, travel and resume active lives.
PebbleCreek resident Jack Evans had a sudden heart attack following a bout with the flu in 1998. For 20 years he has been pacemaker dependent; each beat of his heart is driven by Medtronic’s pacing devices and defibrillators. He tested each new generation of Medtronic’s devices and the drug Coreg for several years. Jack’s heart beat was reliant on equipment from Medtronic Covidien but it is important to look around at other companies who also have various medical technology products designed to help patients suffering with a range of health problems. It is important to follow your doctors advice and use the correct medical device for you.
Despite using some medical technology, his heart unfortunately started failing again in 2009. In critical condition, he flew to Thailand for cardiac stem cell treatment in a pioneer test program in cardiac stem cell research. The treatment was miraculously successful and gave him several more good years. His case study was presented independently by all three of his doctors at the International Cardiology World Conference.
In June 2017, Jack learned his congestive heart failure had reached the stage that his last option for survival was to add another mechanical support system to his failing heart since he is too old to qualify for a heart transplant. Jack wrestled with the decision. LVAD surgery is an arduous open-heart surgery and afterward he would be a bionic man, dependent on external batteries and electrical support. Jack has no fear of death, a strong Christian faith and has been through near death experiences. However, his children, family and friends urged him to consider that his mind and other organs were still healthy. He might still have quality time to spend with them and they weren’t eager to let him go. Jack had the LVAD surgery in July at Scripps in LaJolla and returned to PebbleCreek in October. He no longer needs an oxygen machine and his blood pressure is normal although he has no pulse or heartbeat. He wears a battery pack and his Heartmate controller. In December he received his sixth new Medtronic’s defibrillator at Banner Good Samaritan Hospital (an automated defibrillator) and is now back home where he continues to recover. His goal now is to complete cardiac rehab and take a trip this summer to fish in Durango. He has not been able to visit family in Durango or Reno for several years due to the altitude.
Jack’s care is now with the Banner Hospital LVAD team. The PebbleCreek Fire Department and Emergency staff are now trained for emergency treatment and transport of LVAD patients. Jack’s wife Mary Ann is certified in the care of his driveline site which requires sterile bandage changes twice a week. Jack carries his battery pack and controller in a camera bag waist pack or he wears a fishing vest with pockets for the batteries.
He is looking forward to having the opportunity to enjoy his PebbleCreek activities again, being involved in the many clubs he belongs to in the community and dancing at the Christmas Balls next year!