First-in-Man Use of the MVAD Axial-Flow Pump: Long Term Outcome

The use of durable continuous-flow mechanical assist devices provides selected heart failure patients with both symptomatic and functional benefits; however, they are not without potential complications. Infection, thrombosis, stroke and GI bleeding are amongst the most commonly reported problems of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) therapy.1 –3 In addition, LVAD peripherals can be bulky and heavy for the patient to carry, causing joint stress, discomfort and reduced quality of life. Device miniaturization is one design trend that has enabled device implantation in patients with a broader range of body sizes, and when used with minimal ly invasive approaches, has reduced surgical trauma and complications such as bleeding and infection.
Source: The Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation - Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: Source Type: research