Bret Michaels Back In Hospital After Warning Stroke,
Also Has a Hole In His Heart
Bret Michaels was readmitted to the hospital this week after
suffering numbness on the left side of his body, predominately his
face and hands which doctors described as a Transient Ischemic
Attack (TIA) or warning stroke. While MRI and CT scan tests were
being conducted, Michaels also received a Doppler Ultrasound of his
legs and lower abdomen looking for blood clots and most importantly
an Ultrasound Bubble Test of his heart was conducted which proved
positive for a Patent Forum Ovale (PFO), a hole in the heart. Dr.
Zabramski (Bret's neurosurgeon), Dr. Becker (who ordered the test),
Dr. Cook (who conducted the test) and Dr. Frey (Director,
Outpatient Stroke Program) all confirmed the results.
Dr. Zabramski states: "There is no doubt that the positive
Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) is devastating news to Bret and his
family. The good news is that it is operable and treatable and we
think we may have diagnosed the problem that caused the Transient
Ischemic Attach (TIA) or warning stroke; however we feel it is
highly unlikely this is connected to the brain hemorrhage he
suffered just a few weeks earlier. Once again it is great that he
quickly reacted to the severe numbness and got to the hospital
immediately."
Dr. Zabramski continues, "I realize Bret wants to make a full
recovery so that he can be active with his family, attempt to
attend the finale of Celebrity Apprentice and especially get back
on the road to continue making music. Without a doubt he is very
determined to get healthy and make a 100% recovery. Medically
speaking it is a fantastic attitude both mentally and physically
for him to have. However, Bret's brain and body are not quite 100%
yet, especially with the hole found in his heart. Further tests
will be conducted throughout the week and I will have more
information next week as to how this Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO)
will be treated. For now, Bret will be treated with outpatient care
which includes a daily injection of Lovenox (a blood thinner to
reduce the chance of blood clots) and blood tests."
Bret's rep, Janna Elias, states "Bret wants everyone to know he
cannot thank you enough for all of the well wishes, prayers, and
good vibes you have sent his way. Even though these last few months
have been tough on him and his family, especially this most recent
setback, he is in good spirits, great medical hands and is positive
and hopeful that everything is going to be OK. He is up, walking,
talking, continuing his daily rehab and very happy to be alive but
he has made it clear he is sick and tired of being in the hospital
and is ready to rock again."