Left ventricular assist device

What is a left ventricular assist device (LVAD)?

An LVAD is a mechanical pump implanted by a surgeon into the left ventricle (the large pumping chamber of your heart). It is designed to supplement the reduced blood pumping around your body.

As a consequence of LVAD therapy, in some patients the diseased heart can recover, making the need for a heart transplant unnecessary.

LVADs can only be used in patients suitable for heart transplantation. The devices may become the option of choice for patients with chronic heart failure.

LVADs have been in clinical use for more than 20 years, mainly as a support or “bridge” for the heart until a donor heart becomes available.

The pump is connected to a driveline which exits on your abdomen (tummy area), it will be discussed before your operation which side if your tummy will be best for this to come out of.

The driveline is then attached to a controller (like a mini computer) and two batteries. This will be individually programmed by the VAD team to settings which are suitable for you, (they maybe changed over time depending on changes in your condition).

Waiting for insertion of an LVAD

It is important you keep yourself as fit and healthy as possible before your operation. The fitter you are before your operation, the quicker and easier your recovery will be.

What you can do to prepare for your LVAD

Stop smoking: this will help speed up your recovery and prevent the complications of this operation linked with smoking. These include chest infections, pneumonia and blood clotting problems.

Your community nurse or GP can help and can put you in touch with the local Stop Smoking Service.
If you are overweight, losing some weight will help you to recover faster. You will find it easier to move around as well as being less tired.
If you are undernourished, ensure you are taking enough fluids and try to eat a diet high in proteins, such as lean meat, eggs, cheese, fish and nuts.
If you have diabetes, monitoring and working to keep your blood sugar level steady will also help you recover better after surgery.
Physical activity: try to keep doing as much as you can. Exercise such as regular walking, even for short distances will help you to recover your fitness more quickly after surgery.
Dental care: take good care of your teeth and have regular dental check-ups. Tell your dentist that you are having heart surgery if you need dental treatment.