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

Hi,

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I am considering that both valves are functioning normally, and the patient was on proper oral anticoagulation (e.g., vitamin K antagonists) to prevent blood clots. Right now, the patient is in heart failure with low urine output. After electrolyte correction and normal functioning of the valve, with extensive failure management, the patient is no longer breathless while sitting or lying down. Only you can move the patient out of the ICU. After discharge, fluid intake should also be monitored. She may require iron sucrose IV supplements for anemia correction, as the valves can cause hemolysis. The patient is in decompensated heart failure; the prognosis is not favorable.

Do share her echocardiography reports to help further.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

According to this report, LV systolic function is acceptable (ejection fraction in percentage is not mentioned), 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 have already improved from heart failure. Urine output should be good in this LV function if there are no primary renal/kidney 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 need to be seen, like anemia, heart rhythm, valvular function, and 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 the kidneys. I think only for hemofiltration should she be in the ICU; in between, she can come out as cardiac function is acceptable.

I hope this helps.