Surgeons update condition of second AbioCor
heart patient
Tom Christerson Makes Continuous Strides
In His Recovery
LOUISVILLE, Ky. - University of Louisville
surgeons Laman Gray, M.D. and Rob Dowling, M.D., said today that
Tom Christerson, recipient of the world's second artificial heart
at Jewish Hospital in Louisville, Ky., is making continuous strides
in his recovery.
Background video of Mr. Christerson's
activities will be up-linked live via satellite coordinates Ku-Band
SBS 6, Transponder 3, Horizontal Frequency 11774 Mhz. The audio
frequency is 6.80/6.20 Mhz. The signal will be available from
3:15-3:30 p.m. (EDT), Thursday, Feb. 14.
"I'm feeling good, and
I'm looking forward to getting out of the hospital," said
Mr. Christerson.
Mr. Christerson does physical therapy
every day at Frazier Rehab Institute, a rehab center adjacent
to the hospital. He is now able to walk unassisted and without
effort. He also does exercises each day to improve his upper body
strength and works to lengthen the time he can carry the batteries
he uses with the device. Mr. Christerson also goes on outings
each day. His travels thus far have taken him to the Sport Boat
and Vacation Show at the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center,
luncheons at local restaurants and The Inn at Jewish Hospital.
"We're delighted with Tom's recovery. He's been improving
and working hard in physical therapy," said Dr. Dowling.
"He has maintained a positive mental outlook and taken a
healthy approach to his recovery."
"Tom is getting stronger each day. He's enjoying his time
with family and friends. And he enjoys getting out and going places,"
said Dr. Gray.
Mr. Christerson underwent surgery
to implant the AbioCor heart Sept. 13. Today marks the 154th day
he has lived with the device, manufactured by ABIOMEDâ of
Danvers, Mass. "I'm having a wonderful time," Mr. Christerson
said. "I've received excellent care. Jewish Hospital has
the best nurses anywhere."
Jewish Hospital is among the
top 10 cardiac centers in the United States and along with the
University of Louisville, is dedicated to excellence, research
and education. For more information, please visit www.heartpioneers.com.
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