FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about the C-Pulse^® Heart Assist System.

Will having the C-Pulse System implanted affect my status on the transplant list?

No. Having the C-Pulse implanted should not affect your status on the transplant list. If you have questions about transplant status, please discuss this with your Heart Failure Cardiologist or transplant team.

Do I need to be connected to the C-Pulse all the time?

The C-Pulse System can be safely turned off and on. You may safely turn the device off and disconnect it to perform activities which are more convenient with it off.

How long can I be disconnected from the C-Pulse System?

For the study, you are asked to be connected to the C-Pulse System approximately 20 hours a day. You may safely disconnect for short periods of time, however, it is recommended that you not be disconnected for longer than 15 minutes at a time or you may see a return of your Heart Failure symptoms, such as shortness of breath.

Will I need to take blood thinners with the C-Pulse implanted?

No. Since the C-Pulse System does not come in contact with your blood stream, blood-thinning medications are not required for this device. Your Heart Failure Cardiologist will determine what medications you will be taking after the implant surgery.

What will happen if the C-Pulse System batteries run out?

The driver will alert you in plenty of time before the C-Pulse System batteries run out. This will allow you to change to another battery pack or to connect to wall power. Battery status may be checked by pressing the battery status button on the driver. However, if the battery runs out, nothing serious will occur. You may see a return of your Heart Failure symptoms after a short period of time.

Will I be able to take a commercial airline flight if I have the C-Pulse System?

C-Pulse is designed to operate in a commercial aircraft. The C-Pulse can be left on during flight (while ascending, in flight or descending). In the event you turn off the device during flight, you must disconnect the PIL from the Driver.  Please note, experience is limited.

Will going through “Metal Detectors” at airports or government buildings affect the C-Pulse System?

Metal detectors may be set off by the C-Pulse System. Metal detectors may have some temporary affects and set off the driver alarm and stop the system from performing. You may reset the driver by turning the driver off and then back on.

Will cell phones interfere with the C-Pulse System?

Some patients have reported brief instances of interference when some brands of cell phones are kept close to the C-Pulse driver. This interference may set off the the driver alarm and may stop the system from performing. You may reset the driver by turning the driver off and then back on. You should keep cell phones as far away from the Driver as possible.

Is there a car charger available for the C-Pulse System?

There is not a car charger currently available for the C-Pulse System. However, you will have 4 battery packs – if you are planning an extended trip you should fully charge all battery packs before departure and carry them with you.

Can I swim or take a bath if I have the C-Pulse System?

You should check with your cardiologist and/or surgeon. Swimming may increase the risk of infection at your C-Pulse exit site. Additionally, you would need to be disconnected from the C-Pulse System to swim and therefore would not have the benefit of the pump for your increased activity. You may take a shower with the C-Pulse disconnected but baths are discouraged.

What do I do if there is a power outage?

It is not life-threatening to be disconnected from the C-Pulse System. Nothing serious will occur. You may notice your Heart Failure symptoms return,such as being tired or short of breath. Remember to rotate the battery packs and keep the batteries charged and calibrated. You should notify your power company of the use of medical equipment in the home.

Will I still need to take Heart Failure Medications with the C-Pulse System?

Your Heart Failure doctor will manage your medical care, including what medications you take. You may or may not see a change in which medications you take after the C-Pulse implantation. Do not change your Heart Failure medications without your doctor’s approval.

Will my pacemaker and/or defibrillator work with the C-Pulse System Implanted?

Yes. The C-Pulse will not affect the ability of your defibrillator.

Do I need to tell my Cardiologist if I am having dental work?

Yes.