Yes, I am Borg. This is the device I have which keeps my heart pumping. A computerized controller is connected through a drive line into my heart, which can be connected to an external computer with more software options. I dont have a heartbeat anymore. Instead, there is a constant whirling sound. Since there is no pulse, my blood pressure is measure by a doppler device. I must always carry a controller, two lithium batteries as well as duplicates (another controller and two more lithium batteries in case something should fail) with me at all times. Each pack weighs between 8 and 10 pounds. I am taking blood thinners so as no clots will form in the implant itself. Every day, the drive site area dressings have to be changed in a totally sterile environment. Weve got the change time down to about 8 minutes. A nice feature of this is that if there is a hardware upgrade, with surgery, the doctors can just unscrew the old hardware from my heart and screw in the new device, eliminating a need to replace tubing and drive lines already in place. In January, I will be eligible to be placed on a heart transplant list, surving 6 months. Remember, I was told I had only 6 months at most to live before this became an option for me. So yes, everyday I say thanks and its very easy to appreciate so much more.
Posted on: Thu, 04 Dec 2014 15:09:43 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015