MetaChat - For the first time in Fresno.

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08 April 2010

For the first time in Fresno. For those who like details. "The Impella® device is clearly more clinically effective than IABP or ECMO. It is also less traumatic and less expensive than other available ventricular assist devices." →[More:]

Guess what I'm doing Wednesday afternoon! That's right, I'm playing guinea pig! Squee! A handful of staff and the hospital itself will all get big gold stars for their CVs.

The reason for using this technology is I have a weakened T-junction artery that already has a stent across the top bar. Stents are wire-mesh tubes placed inside arteries for a number of reasons. The occlusion that needs ballooning is in the base of the T. Thus, the cardiologist must snake a catheter through the stent wall and around that 90 degree corner.

Life on the edge, baby!

post by: Ardiril at: 18:42 | 8 comments

I am optimistic. It seems like, anymore, the heart is seen as a mechanical/electrical device for which spare parts can be ordered and installed.

If this can help oxygenate your tissues more, you'll be even more ornery here but then the alternative, not so attractive. . .

Good luck!

posted by danf 08 April | 20:58

What danf said, I couldn't say it any better. Be your heart a mechanical device that can have parts ordered and installed. May papers be written about said heart, about the success achieved therein. So say we all (or so says the BSG geek in me).

posted by msali 09 April | 00:14

I wish you luck and good vibes and rainbows and such.

posted by occhiblu 09 April | 00:49

Good luck, we're all counting on you!

posted by deborah 09 April | 01:28

I have done a ton of research on this device and the cost saving potential is huge in both the short and long terms considering the risk margin. Also, it has proven itself in both emergency situations and advanced disease cases deemed otherwise too risky. Investors may want to give this company a good look-over.

posted by Ardiril 09 April | 01:39

All the best to you, my sweet! May it all go smooth as silk.

posted by Specklet 09 April | 10:11

Hope it goes well. I need the stock tips.

posted by rainbaby 09 April | 10:53

Cool, you are so avant garde. Hope it goes smoothly and that recovery is easy.

posted by rmless2 09 April | 12:07

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