Heart Remodeling after inplantation of a Biventricular Pacemaker with ICD

Does anyone have any ideas as to the average amount of time it takes following surgery for the heart to "remodel "?  I had the surgery on the 18th of July and I still have the same symptoms I had before the procedure.  I visited my EP and the St. Jude Tech rep on July 29th for a "tweaking" and was given a return date of 28 Oct.  The device is apparently working fine but I still have the same old symptoms:  Fluid build up requiring 120 mg of Lasix a day, moderately severe Mitral Valve Regurgitation and an EF of 30-35.  I know that this device doesn't help everyone and I don't wan't to give up hope but it would be nice to have a general rule of thumb as to when positive results might be noticeable.  Am I being to premature with my concern?  Has anyone else with Class III Heart Failure received this device?  If so I would love to hear from you.  Sid, aka Cardiac Man

7 Comments

It's Way too soon Sid

by Grateful Heart - 2016-08-04 23:48:26

You're right, it doesn't always help everyone but it's only been 2 weeks for you.  Sometimes it takes a few more tweaks to feel right so go back before Oct. if you need to.

Stay hopeful and give it 6 months at least for improvement.  A positive attitude is very important. 

I have a Bi-Vent with a defib too.  I also have SSS, LBBB and my EF was 24%.  With meds after about 6 months, the next Echo showed a 50% EF.  Surprisingly, after 5 years it went to 55%.  Normal is 60-70 ish.  No one has 100% EF.  I didn't think it could increase after the first year so never say never.  Try not to think about it and just work on what you can...being active, exercise and diet if you need it (don't know).

I believe I was originally classified as Class III and eventually Class II after time.   

I know you are new at this and asking questions and learning is important.  Just try not to stress too much.....easier said than done, I know.

Grateful Heart

Heart Remodeling after inplantation of a Biventricular Pacemaker with ICD

by Cardiac Man - 2016-08-05 08:10:05

Grateful Heart:  Your absolutely right - it's only been 2 weeks.  I shall try to focus in on other things and not expect instant gratification.  I'm amazed at the improvement in your EF!  Thanks for the advice and encouragement.  Sid, aka Cardiac Man.

Mitral regurgitation

by Cabg Patch - 2016-08-05 12:33:35

With moderate to severe mitral valve regurgitation it's unlikely resynchronizing the pacing is going to resolve your symptoms or improve your CHF. Ask your EP.

You should strongly consider valve repair replacement

Heart Remodeling after inplantation of a Biventricular Pacemaker with ICD

by Cardiac Man - 2016-08-05 22:40:41

Angry Sparrow:  Thanks for your imput.  I shall be patient.  Sid, aka Cardiac Man.

Heart Remodeling after inplantation of a Biventricular Pacemaker with ICD

by Cardiac Man - 2016-08-05 22:59:18

CABG PATCH:  I actually started talking to my Cardiologist about the Mitra Clip Procedure but he convinced me to see an EP Cardiologist first who convinced me that CRT therapy was a more comprehensive approach to solving my multiple heart issues.  The EP said that the inplanted device would help my heart to remodel and that part of that process would include the Mitral Valve Leaflets once again fitting properly thus reducing the regurgitation.  If the pacing doesn't work then I will ck out the Mitra Clip idea.  Sid. aka Cardiac Man.

At least 3 months

by Hoser - 2016-08-07 10:03:31

and during that time start making yourself healthy! I had a follow up echo 3 months after CRT for CHF and my EF went from 15 to 55%. Normal function now. I am probably on one end of the curve, the lucky end.

Heart Remodeling after inplantation of a Biventricular Pacemaker with ICD

by Cardiac Man - 2016-08-07 15:18:43

15- 55 % -that's amazing.  Good for you.  Cardiac Man

You know you're wired when...

Your old device becomes a paper weight for your desk.

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