Durable left ventricular assist devices: a contemporary review of their benefits and drawbacks.

Publication/Presentation Date

12-1-2024

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Heart transplantation, the gold standard for end-stage cardiomyopathy, is hindered by donor shortages and clinical deterioration. Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have emerged as crucial alternatives, stabilizing hemodynamics, reversing end-organ damage, and enabling patient discharge. Significant engineering advancements and iterative improvements have since produced devices capable of rivaling heart transplantation in early survival potential. This review serves to provide an overview of LVAD technology, an understanding of current device limitations, and preview new technologies being developed to address them.

AREAS COVERED: This manuscript reviews the evolution of LVAD technology, discussing its benefits, drawbacks, and contemporary outcomes. It will detail the progression, current state, and future directions of LVAD technology, emphasizing its pivotal role in managing advanced heart failure.

EXPERT OPINION: The modern day LVAD has significantly extended the lifespan of patients with end-stage heart failure. However, adverse events remain abound and will be the focus of the next generation of devices. A burgeoning pipline of new technologies abound and preview the possibilities of a sustainable solution to a devastating disease.

Volume

21

Issue

12

First Page

1111

Last Page

1120

ISSN

1745-2422

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

PubMedID

39618100

Department(s)

Department of Surgery

Document Type

Article

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