Surgery Risk

[hoffpaulman]

I need to have hip replacement surgery but I have a low ejection fraction of less than 18%. How serious are my risks?

[hoffpaulman]

Thanks for the suggestions. I am currently receiving the injections and getting some relief but they only seem to last for a few weeks. My Orthopedic Surgeon has also prescribed Acetaminophn-Tramadol. I think that I will forget about the surgery for now and hope for medical advancements in the future. Stem Cell research looks interesting but that will take time. Thanks again.

[MichelleP_3811]

Oh dear, I am sorry to hear that.  If 2 cardiologists are concerned I would definitely do some research and find out what the risks are before proceeding with any surgery.  Have you asked them what their concerns are?  I know this isn't a fix but have you tried, glucosamine, chondroitin.  I heard it can help joints.  I am not sure if it would help your condition but may be worth a shot for at least a little relief.  If that doesn't work and you choose not to do the surgery I would find out from your orthopedic where you can go for pain management.  My heart goes out to you that you remain safe in whatever direction you choose.  Please keep us posted.

[Jerry_NJ]

Ouch, sorry about the low EF and the pain.  My wife has had a lot of pain over the last 10 years and a surgeon has suggested hip surgery.  She has not done so, and has had good relief from shots, in the spin area as I recall.  Steroid or the like I believe.  This isn't a fix, but it has stopped the pain in her case.  Have you investigated alternatives to surgery?

[hoffpaulman]

Thanks Jerry,
My Orthopedic Surgeon says I really need the hip surgery but my Cardiologists both say no. I'm really in a lot of pain but the Cardiologists and the Orthopedic Surgeon seem to disagree about the level of risk involved. I've had two angiograms and two separate Cardiologists confirm that my EF is below 20%. I believe that the Cardiologist's main concern is with the use of general anesthesia.

[Jerry_NJ]

I can't think of the best forum to post your question, but assume you doctor (better doctors, Cardiologist and Surgeon) have given you surgery the go ahead.

My experience with surgery (but not hip replacement) is surgeons are getting very good at controlling blood loss.  I didn't require any supplementary blood when I underwent open heart surgery a few years ago.  My point?  I will guess low blood loss means less strain on the heart.  

Are you sure you EF is 18%?  As you know, that is very low.