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Heart Weakness. ECHO Test Shows Enlarged Left Ventricle, Low EF. Bariatric Surgery Required?
Hello, in seeking clearance for bariatric surgery , I had an echo. Result was low ef and enlarged left ventrical. I was then given a nuclear stress test. Preliminary confirmed a weakened heart . I have to return next week to consult with my regular doctor and get the full report. does this mean that I may not get clearance for bariatric surgery? Also, what is the prognosis? Will I ever be able to have an active normal lifestyle? Will I have to take medication for life? Thank you
Thanks for your concerns. First, the cause of your weak heart will need to be clarified as there are many causes, including blocked arteries of the heart, medications, infiltrative diseases of the heart muscle, etc. The cause dictates the prognosis and treatment. You will likley need a cardiac catheterization to assess for blocked arteries of the heart. Most of the time yes, when the heart muscle is weak, the medications used are chronic.
Yours truly,
Dr Brenes-Salazar MD
Cardiology
Mayo Clinic MN
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Heart Weakness. ECHO Test Shows Enlarged Left Ventricle, Low EF. Bariatric Surgery Required?
Dear patient, Thanks for your concerns. First, the cause of your weak heart will need to be clarified as there are many causes, including blocked arteries of the heart, medications, infiltrative diseases of the heart muscle, etc. The cause dictates the prognosis and treatment. You will likley need a cardiac catheterization to assess for blocked arteries of the heart. Most of the time yes, when the heart muscle is weak, the medications used are chronic. Yours truly, Dr Brenes-Salazar MD Cardiology Mayo Clinic MN