Ejection Fraction rate

Why would I need a defibrillator implanted after an aortic valve replacement.  My last echo showed my rate as only 33%.  What will the defibrillator do?

[Dr J Singh]

Hi,
While doing an aortic valve replacement, there are critical electrical fibers which run quite close to the aortic valve and these fibres may be damaged while doing the replacement. Hence, after an aortic valve replacement a defibrillator is put to ensure that in case some abnormal rhythms originate, they are suppressed by the defibrillator. Usually, these abnormal rhythms are transient and don’t last for a long time but still can be life threatening and hence the defibrillator.
I hope that helps. Please do keep me posted. Kind regards.

[Barb5650]

Thank you for the information.  It gives some idea of why they wanted it done.  The surgeon wanted to put it in during my valve replacement but my cardiologist said to wait and see.  I have another eco next week so hopefully my ejection fraction rate has increased so I don't have to have this surgery.  I hope my cardiologist made the right decision.  So far my heart rate has stayed steady and I haven't noticed any irregularities.  I am being monitored at my Cardiac Rehab and they say things look good.
Happy Thursday!
Barb

[Barb5650]

Just an update.  My ejection fraction rate is now 33% and my left ventricle has shrunk a little.  My cardiologist wants me to meet with a specialist for my heart rythm this Friday.  He feels we need to discuss the possibility of a defibrillator.  I guess with having a LBBB along with the valve replacement they may think it is necessary.