Q. My mother has undergone aortic valve replacement surgery. Is it fine to shift her from ICU?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I am taking into consideration both valves are functioning normally, and the patient was on proper oral anticoagulation (e.g., vitamin K antagonists) to prevent clots. Right now, the patient is in heart failure with low urine output - After electrolyte correction, normal functioning of the valve, extensive failure management, and the patient is not breathless while sitting and lying down. Only you can move the patient out of ICU. After discharge also fluid intake should be monitored. She may need iron sucrose IV supplements for anemia correction because valves cause hemolysis. The patient is in decompensated heart failure, the prognosis is not favorable. Do share her echocardiography reports.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

According to this report, LV systolic function is acceptable (not mentioned ejection fraction in percentage), and the LV cavity is not dilated. Valve's functioning is not mentioned. I am considering both valves functioning normally. I think it is a good report, and the patient should improve or already improved from heart failure. Urine output should be good in this LV function if there are no renal/kidney primary issues. According to the heart or cardiac point of view, I find her in good condition. Suppose she is still in failure symptoms other causes to be seen like anemia, heart rhythm, valvular function, electrolytes. With proper medicines and fluid intake moderation according to urine output, she can stay for a pretty good time by herself. (Monitor fluid intake, hemoglobin levels, INR, and valvular function). It seems now the main problem is with kidneys. I think only for hemofiltration should she be in ICU in between, she can come out as cardiac function is acceptable.

Same symptoms doesn’t mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Prashant Valecha

Experience: 14 + Yrs

Cardiology

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