Expanding heart failure treatment: LVAD offers new hope for patients

A recent Well Ahead Philly segment on 6abc highlighted an inspiring story of resilience and medical innovation. The feature focused on John Burke, a 76-year-old patient who, after surviving a massive heart attack and years of worsening heart failure, received a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) at Lankenau Medical Center, part of Main Line Health. His story underscores the life-extending benefits of LVADs for patients with advanced heart failure — especially those who may not be eligible for a transplant.

Watch the full news segment below to hear John's inspiring journey firsthand

From heart attack to heart failure: John's journey to advanced cardiac treatments

More than 20 years ago, John Burke survived a massive heart attack — flatlining three times. Despite receiving a pacemaker and an implanted defibrillator, his heart function continued to decline over the years. His daily five-mile walks became more difficult until, eventually, just reaching the corner of his street felt impossible. By the fall of last year, John was told he had only months to live. Facing end-stage heart failure, he needed another option.

Introducing the LVAD: A life-saving option for advanced heart failure

That's when Danielle Spragan, MD, a cardiac surgeon at Lankenau Heart Institute, part of Main Line Health, introduced John to a device that could save his life: the Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD). This advanced mechanical pump helps the heart circulate blood when its natural function is severely diminished. After hearing how the device worked, John didn't hesitate — he said, "When can I have it?"

How Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs) support failing hearts

LVADs are surgically implanted in the chest, where they take over the function of the left side of the heart. Blood is drawn from the left ventricle into the pump and then pushed out through the aorta to the rest of the body. The pump is powered by external batteries connected through a driveline. At night, patients like John plug directly into a wall outlet to keep the device running. This setup enables a continuous flow of blood and, with it, renewed energy and function.

LVAD vs. Heart Transplant: A viable, life-extending alternative

According to Justin Pelberg, DO, a cardiologist with Lankenau Heart Institute, LVADs are an important treatment option — especially for patients who aren't candidates for heart transplantation due to age or coexisting conditions such as diabetes, advanced lung disease or kidney dysfunction. "Not everyone can get a transplant," he said, "but a lot of people can get this device and extend their lives." He noted that two-year survival rates with an LVAD are comparable to those of transplant recipients, and outcomes continue to improve as the technology advances.

Life after LVAD: John's road to recovery and renewed strength

Since receiving his LVAD in November, John has been steadily rebuilding his strength. He's already looking forward to enjoying springtime walks again — a huge milestone given where he was just a few months ago. "I feel great," John says. "I'm alive." For patients with advanced heart failure, his story highlights the hope and quality of life that an LVAD can restore.

A second chance at life with LVAD

John's story is a powerful example of how LVADs can provide hope and a second chance at life for patients with advanced heart failure. Many patients could benefit from this technology.

Next steps:

Schedule an appointment with a heart failure cardiologist
Learn more about left ventricular assist devices
Expanding treatment options for heart failure through clinical trials