Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVAD)

Originally designed for short-term use in people waiting for a heart transplant, left ventricular assist devices are now used to treat patients with advanced heart failure who are ineligible for a heart transplant. A left ventricular assist device is an electronic pump that is surgically implanted inside the abdominal cavity to help the weakened heart circulate blood through the body.

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LVADs are evolving rapidly; the newest devices are smaller than an adult's fist and can last more than five years. However, these new LVADs are not yet approved by the FDA; to receive one of the newer designs, you must enroll in a clinical trial at participating transplant/VAD centers in the United States.

Implantation of a left ventricular device requires heart surgery. During the procedure, the LVAD is connected to the left ventricle of the heart and the aorta. Oxygenated blood from the weakened left ventricle is channeled into the LVAD, which then pumps the blood out into the aorta, circulating oxygen and nutrients to the tissues of the body.

After recovery, patients can live a near-normal lifestyle, traveling, hiking, and playing golf. Swimming and bathtubs are out, though, because the devices use external batteries that need to stay dry. Patients carry the batteries in packs or vests and can replace them as needed. Like heart transplant patients, people with LVADs need to visit the doctor regularly for follow-up; however, immunosuppressant therapy is not needed. In addition, LVADs can malfunction, so people using LVADs need ready access to a hospital equipped to handle this type of emergency.