Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) Surgery Cost in India

How LVAD surgery is Performed?

An LVAD treatment in India requires open cardiac surgery to be implanted. You will be asleep the entire time because the surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The operation takes 4-6 hours to complete.

To reach your heart and attach the LVAD, the surgeon will make an incision below your chest and open your chest bone (sternum). Doctors may choose to create an incision on the left side of your chest depending on your situation (Thoracotomy).

A heart-lung bypass machine may be used during the procedure to distribute oxygen-rich blood throughout your body. During the surgery, a breathing machine (ventilator) will take over your breathing. After the LVAD is installed, the incision will be closed.

Because each patient’s rehabilitation is unique, the duration you will spend in the hospital is determined by your specific needs. The average hospital stay following LVAD surgery in India is 14-21 days.

This implanted device alleviates symptoms such as persistent exhaustion, and shortness of breath, and improves survival and quality of life.

What are the risks associated with LVAD surgery?

The LVAD procedure, like any other surgical procedure, comes with risks and complications. Your doctor will go over the exact risks and benefits of having an LVAD implanted with you. Bleeding, the development of blood clots, heart failure, respiratory failure, kidney failure, stroke, infection, and device failure are all possible risks.

When you visit with your doctor, be sure you understand why LVAD is recommended and the dangers associated with the procedure. Following the implantation operation, you and your caretakers will get LVAD training, including detailed instructions to ensure the safe and proper use of the LVAD.  You’ll learn how to use the device and how to deal with potential emergency situations. Your LVAD staff will assist you in understanding:

• How does the device work?
• Importance of the alarms
• Proper system maintenance
• Procedures are carried out on a daily, weekly, monthly, and annual basis.
• How to monitor for changes
• When should you inform the LVAD staff of any changes or concerns?

You must demonstrate your knowledge of the device before being discharged from the hospital, and your care team may administer a test. Physical and occupational therapists will work with you to increase your strength in order to help you establish independence with self-care activities. Additionally, now that you have an LVAD, you should visit a nutritionist to discuss a “heart-healthy” diet.

The goal is to get you home as quickly as possible, although most patients stay in the hospital for 14 to 21 days on average. The time of your discharge will be determined by your physical recovery, medical condition, and familiarity with LVAD care. Some patients are admitted to an intermediate care facility or a rehabilitation center until they are ready to go home.

Suggestion

After receiving an LVAD, recovering and resuming normal daily activities is a gradual process. You will be able to conduct most activities after having an LVAD.  You can shower, bicycle, hike, and even return to work, in some cases. You can also travel with minor modifications.

Patients who use an LVAD are unable to swim or bath, participate in contact sports, lift heavy weights, or be away from an electrical power supply.

It’s critical to live a healthy lifestyle both before and after receiving your LVAD, which includes:

• Quitting tobacco use
• Eating a “heart-healthy” diet
• Stopping alcohol use
• Not using illegal drugs
• Exercising regularly

When you get an LVAD or become a caregiver for someone who has one, it’s not unusual to feel anxious or depressed. Reach out to your treatment team, family, and friends if you’re particularly anxious or upset. You could also wish to talk to a professional counselor or join an LVAD support group.

Q: Is LVAD surgery considered open-heart surgery?

A: The implantation of an LVAD requires open-heart surgery, which typically takes 4 to 6 hours. The LVAD is implanted within the body, in the upper abdomen (just below the heart), with the driveline connected to the pump.

Q: Is an LVAD a significant procedure?

A: The implantation of an LVAD necessitates extensive surgery and a two-week stay in the hospital. Bleeding, blood clots, stroke, and infection are some of the dangers associated with the surgery.

Q: What occurs once an LVAD is implanted?

A: After the LVAD device is placed, patients normally stay in the hospital for two to three weeks before continuing their recovery at home for many weeks. People will be able to resume practically all of their routine activities, including employment, in the end.

Q: Is a pacemaker the same as an LVAD?

A: A pacemaker and an LVAD serve different purposes. While an LVAD aids in the efficient pumping of blood, a pacemaker aids in the correction of an irregular or slow heartbeat. A pacemaker does not assist with pumping; rather, it generates electrical stimulation that regulates the heartbeat.

Q: What is the best way for LVAD patients to shower?

A: Place the complete LVAD carrier in the bag, including the controller and batteries. Make sure your driveline is facing the side of the shower bag with the zipper stopper, not the zipper side. Close the outer layer by pinching the toggle and tightening the drawstring.