Ventricular Assist Devices: A Life-Saving Technology For Heart Failure Patients
What are VAD?
Ventricular assist devices (VADs) are mechanical pumps that are used to help support the function of the weakened or damaged heart. They work by pumping blood in the body and taking over some of the pumping function of the heart's ventricles. There are different types of VADs available depending on which ventricle they are assisting - left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) help the left ventricle while right ventricular assist devices (RVADs) help the right ventricle. Some devices support both ventricles and are called biventricular assist devices (BiVADs).
How do VADs Work?
For Ventricular Assist Devices, the device has two connections - one to the left ventricle and one to the aorta. It pumps oxygenated blood from the left ventricle to the body just like the heart's left ventricle normally would. For RVADs, it has connections to the right ventricle and pulmonary artery to pump deoxygenated blood to the lungs. BiVADs have connections that support both ventricles. The devices are powered by an external driver and controller unit that is worn by the patient, usually by strapping to the torso. The unit regulates pump speed and provides power to the device via connecting tubes.
Reasons for Using VADs
The main uses of VADs currently are as a bridge to transplantation or as destination therapy for those who are not candidates for a heart transplant. They are used for patients suffering from severe heart failure whose own hearts are too weak to adequately pump blood around the body. Conditions that may require VAD support include dilated cardiomyopathy, coronary artery disease and myocarditis. By taking over some of the pumping function, VADs are able to improve symptoms, increase cardiac output and support the patient until they can receive a donor heart or have their condition stabilized.
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