Overview
Ventricular assist devices are mechanical cardiac supports that augment native function of either ventricle. They can be divided into:
- Permanent systems
For end-stage heart failure patients, used as a:- Bridge to transplant
- Bridge to decision
- Bridge to transplant candidacy
- Destination therapy
- Temporary systems
- Bridge to recovery
- Bridge to bridge
Prior to implantation of a permanent system.
In Australia, a permanent VAD is only funded as a bridge to transplant.
Equipment
A VAD consists of a:
- Inflow cannula
- Outflow cannula
- Externally-controlled pump
Technique
- Preload dependent
- Afterload sensitive