Hospital hails 150 hearts

No matter the number, a new heartbeat means a new life.

However, LDS Hospital showed Monday why counting heartbeats means a celebration. Two men, both with new heartbeats because of the ventricular assist device (VAD), are the hospital's first and 150th patients to receive the devices.

In May 1993, Gayle Rumsey, an Idaho farmer with a zest for living, was about to celebrate his 38th wedding anniversary. Then, his heart failed. Doctors at LDS Hospital told him there was something new available, but they weren't sure if it would work.

"I figured it was too late for me, but maybe they'll learn something," Rumsey said about deciding to go ahead with the operation.

It worked. He used the left ventricular assist device (LVAD) for 86 days until a transplant heart became available.

Twelve years later, Horace Hall checked into LDS Hospital. After five heart attacks, his heart was quitting. The Air Force retiree came to LDS Hospital for a heart pump because the hospital is one of the top three in the nation. He became number 150 and the reason for the celebration Monday.

"I can't begin to say what it's worth, standing here talking to you, when I thought I didn't have another day," Hall said, choking on the last words and thanking his doctors through teary eyes.

The two men shook hands Monday. Hall was looking into the eyes of a man who risked his life for science; Rumsey was seeing the result of his pioneering efforts.

"We are truly in the era of bionics," said Dr. James Long, LDS Hospital artificial heart program director. "Hearts are being replaced with machines and giving people quality of life."

Though it took 12 years to reach the 150 mark, it will probably take half that long to double it. Every year, doctors use 50 percent more LVADS than the year before. This year, 24 patients have benefitted from the technology.

"Science really marches on," Long said. He spoke of Barney Clark, who in 1982 became the first person to receive an artificial heart.

"Here we sit, 23 years later, experiencing a triumph of human science and an incredible triumph of humankind."

Tears by former patients, many toting the external battery pack the LVAD requires, echoed his words.