Heart Disease

[LZEPOL]

My heart ejection reading is 38.  My doctor says I may need a defibrillator.  I am having another test for T waves.  How will this indicate that I may need a defibrillator?

[maggiemag]

I suspect you are referring to a test called the T wave alternans.  It is a simple non-invasive treadmill test , that is supposed to help predict those who are more likely to suffer from sudden death.  The results are either positive, negative, or indeterminant.  It is just one test to help physicians decide who would most benefit from insertion of a defibrillator.  Patients with EF's below 35% are at most risk, studies have shown.

[caregiver222]

There are lots of missing pieces to this story. I suspect he has other reasons other than your ejection fraction. Implantable emergency defibrilators have come a long way and are well past the "experimental" stage. They have saved many lives. It is always nice to get a second opinion, however if the medical team determines you need one the implantation procedure has an excellent safety record, and these units represent a wonderful advande in cardiac treatment for those who need them.