Rosie Coleman Survives Post-Cardiotomy Cardiogenic Shock  

Rosie Coleman is a retired executive director of elementary education who lives an active lifestyle. In November 2020, at the age of 64, Rosie began experiencing shortness of breath and was diagnosed with pneumonia. When her symptoms did not improve, she went to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Medical Center in Little Rock, AR. Medical staff determined she had congestive heart failure with an ejection fraction of 20 percent, and recommended coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery.

On December 11, 2020, Dr. Jay K. Bhama performed a high-risk quadruple bypass surgery and repaired her tricuspid and mitral valves. While weaning off bypass, Rosie went into postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock (PCCS), and Dr. Bhama placed the Impella 5.5® heart pump to provide hemodynamic support. After three days of support, Rosie’s condition improved and Impella was weaned and removed. Rosie returned home with normal heart function and today, she enjoys her daily walks and lives every day to the fullest.

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.