Calcification of aorta and coronary arteries + low EF

[KateRN]

My husband (60 yrs. old w/ hx Adult Onset Diabetes) survived a massive anterior MI w/complications this past year. In August, his EF was 35-40%. He is now in the hospital w/ moderate CHF and pneumonia. EF is 20-25%.  It was also mentioned to me that he has "calcification of his aorta and heart".  CHF is being treated w/ beta blockers and ace inhibitors plus IV steroids and antibiotics for the pneumonia.  Will have an ICD, when his condition permits.
Is there more that can be done for him, short of having a heart transplant??

[Cleveland Clinic]

If his coronary arteries are all patent, or do not benefit from revascularization, then he will benefit only from medical therapy. Besides the medication syou mentioned, statins such as lipitor are very effective in decreasing the secondary risk of coronary atherosclerosis progression. If he has NYHA class III symptoms such as inability to walk up one flight of stairs before developing shortness of breath then he may also benefit from aldactone or eplerenone. Depending on his EKG he may also benefit from a special 3 lead pacemaker besides the ICD as well.

[sis182]

A related discussion, What does it mean? was started.

[mholloway]

Heart disease, atherosclerosis  runs rampart in my family.My
dad died at 58,3 brothers dead, age 42,59, and 60. two breothers had valve replacemnents at age 56 and 71. one brother  has had stroke and currently has an anuerysym in he head, cant to surgury or stents,

I am 69,  I have had heart attack, carotid surgery 2 angioplasties and have been taking vytorin and aspirin daily.I do not smoke or drink alcohol.The other day I had an X-ray looking for a cracked vertbae and the film came back showing my aorta on X-ray. I know its not supposed to show up on normal X-ray. The report said it is advanced  atherosclerosis. . Should I see a vascular Surgeon and would   a stent a  or surgery to remove the plaque be beneficial?
Thanks
mholloway  in Homer Alaska.