Heart transplant surgeon reveals 3 surprising facts about mechanical heart pumps: ‘No swimming or hot tubs…’

Published on: Oct 9, 2025, 09:03:31 IST

By Eshana Saha

Prefer HTon Google

Share via

Copy link

As technology advances, so does medicine and mechanical heart pumps are yet another invention that can prolong human life. (Pexel)

Mechanical heart pumps are used in cases of advanced heart failure but living with such a device needs lifestyle changes. Dr Yaranov shares 3 shocking facts.

Heart transplants and mechanical heart pumps represent two life-saving advancements in modern cardiology that have transformed how doctors manage end-stage heart failure. While heart transplants replace a failing heart with a donor organ, mechanical heart pumps - such as Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs) - act as artificial supports that keep blood flowing when the heart can no longer do so effectively.

These devices can sustain life for years, either as a bridge to transplant or as long-term therapy, but they also come with unique challenges and lifestyle adjustments that many people are unaware of.

Also Read | Cardiologist explains heart attacks are deadlier in women than men, highlights ‘gender gap’ in heart health

Dr Dmitry Yaranov, a cardiologist and heart transplant surgeon, specialising in advanced heart failure, heart transplantation, and mechanical circulatory support, has revealed 3 shocking facts about mechanical heart pumps that you probably weren’t aware of.

In an Instagram video posted on October 8, the heart transplant specialist discusses these fascinating insights and sheds light on the lifestyle adjustments required for those living with the device.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Dmitry Yaranov, MD | Cardiologist 🫀 (@heart_transplant_doc)

No detectable pulse

Dr Yaranov explains that people living with mechanical heart pumps can, in fact, survive without a detectable pulse - since these devices circulate blood continuously rather than in rhythmic beats. He states, “With mechanical heart pumps like LVADs, patients often have NO detectable pulse because the device provides continuous blood flow. Pretty surprising, right?”

Plugged into life

According to the cardiologist, mechanical heart pumps are powered by batteries - meaning patients are, quite literally, ‘plugged into life’. He explains, “LVAD patients rely on batteries to keep their hearts pumping! No batteries equals no heartbeat. They carry external power packs 24/7. It’s like being plugged into life!”

Also Read | Cardiologist reveals patient thought his low heart rate was just ‘good fitness’; warns why it is dangerous

You can’t swim

Patients with mechanical heart pumps are not allowed to swim and even showering requires special gear because the device cannot come in contact with water. Dr Yaranov explains, “Patients with mechanical heart pumps can’t submerge their bodies in water, so no swimming or hot tubs. Since the device and its external components need to stay dry, even a quick dip could be life-threatening. That’s why showering requires special waterproof gear!”

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Eshana Saha
Eshana Saha is a fresh face in lifestyle and cultural journalism, bringing a refined, multidisciplinary perspective to the intersection of entertainment, fashion and holistic wellbeing. With less than a year of professional experience, she has quickly adapted to high-pressure editorial environments and currently works full-time with HT Media. Prior to this, she interned for nearly six months with Hindustan Times’ entertainment and lifestyle vertical, where she gained hands-on experience in digital reporting, trend analysis and editorial storytelling. Based in New Delhi, Eshana specialises in comprehensive coverage of major cultural moments — from international film press tours to the curated aesthetics of global fashion showcases, award shows and music-centred events. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English from St Xavier’s University, Kolkata, and a Master’s degree in English from the University of Delhi, equipping her with a strong academic foundation and a keen ability to deconstruct complex cultural trends into clear, high-impact narratives. Beyond the red carpet, Eshana has developed a growing focus on health and wellbeing reporting. She bridges the gap between celebrity-driven trends and practical, evidence-informed lifestyle advice, ensuring her work remains both aspirational and grounded in editorial rigour. She has extensively covered the health implications of Delhi’s air pollution crisis, while also playing a key role in amplifying expert-led insights on women’s health and mental wellbeing, helping translate complex medical perspectives into informed, impactful public awareness. An artist at heart, she explores multiple creative forms — from visual arts and music to culinary experiments — and brings a creative’s eye for nuance, texture and detail to every story. Whether analysing runway dynamics or examining emerging wellness movements, she remains committed to accuracy and the highest standards of contemporary journalistic ethics.Read More

Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crick-it, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls & much more. Explore now!.

Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.