Kansas City, Kan- Michael Saldivar, a 30-year-old father, was diagnosed with heart failure after a cardiac arrest on Halloween 2024.

Despite being in good shape, his heart was enlarged. He was placed on the heart transplant list and received a new heart on January 22, 2025.

His recovery was swift, and he was home by Christmas.

His doctors emphasized the multidisciplinary approach to his care, including the use of an impella device and the emotional support from his medical team.

Michael Saldivar, patient

• Michael's heart failure was discovered after a cardiology team at the University of Kansas Health System implanted a defibrillator.
• He felt different after waking up from surgery, experiencing a healthy heart for the first time.

Dr. Matthew Danter, Cardiothoracic Surgeon, The University of Kansas Health System

• Dr. Matthew Danter explains the impeller device, a temporary circulatory support device used before a transplant.
• He explains the impeller device, a temporary circulatory support device used before a transplant.

Dr. Tyler Zorn, Cardiothoracic Surgeon, The University of Kansas Health System

• Dr. Tyler Zorn describes the ease of removing an impella compared to an LVAD.

Dr Hirak Shah, Cardiothoracic Surgeon, The University of Kansas Health System

• Dr. Hirak Shah discusses the benchmarks for heart transplant candidacy, including arrhythmias and progressive heart failure.

Friday, October 31st is the next Morning Medical Update:

Sisters Share a Family History of Breast Cancer

Two sisters share more than just family bond- they also share a breast cancer diagnosis.

We take a look at genetics and breast cancer.

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