LVAD Surgery

A left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is a lightweight pump that helps restore normal blood flow in patients whose hearts are weakened by cardiac disease. It is used to sustain cardiac function in those with end-stage heart failure or as a bridge to heart transplants.

Left Ventricular Assisted Device (LVAD) is designed to improve survival and quality of life of patients with end-stage heart failure. Today’s LVADs are lightweight and smaller than earlier models, so you’ll most likely to be able to move around fairly easily. An LVAD restores normal blood flow to a person whose heart has been weakened by heart disease.

The device does not replace the heart rather it is a rescue for patients whose heart is so weak not able to sustain the blood pressure and vital functions of body or as bridge to heart transplant. LVAD has increased the survival rates of patients and more importantly improves the quality of life in certain subset of patients; however, there can be some risks like stroke, infection and bleeding.