Avid Traveler and Family Man Enjoying Life After Suffering a Near-Fatal Heart Attack

Despite a history of heart disease, Keith Brown has always led an active lifestyle. In October 2019, at the age of 64, Keith collapsed and went into cardiac arrest at a friend’s birthday party. His friends called 911 and initiated CPR before EMTs transported him to Northeast Baptist Hospital in San Antonio, TX. Physicians placed stents and initiated VA-ECMO support to provide oxygenation to his lungs. He was then transported to Methodist Hospital where Dr. Michael Kwan and Dr. Masahiro Ono removed ECMO and implanted the Impella 5.5 heart pump to allow Keith’s heart to rest.  While on support, he was able to ambulate in the ICU floor and after four days of support, Impella was weaned and removed.

Today, Keith enjoys spending time with his family and friends, and has a passion for vacationing and fishing.

As with any medical treatment, individual results may vary. There are potential risks, these risks need to be discussed with your doctor and recovery takes time. The success of this procedure depends on many factors, including your physical condition and your body’s ability to tolerate the procedure. Use care in the selection of your doctors and hospital, based on their skill and experience.