Ventricular Assist Devices (VADs) are mechanical pumps that provide artificial heart function. These devices are implanted in the chest cavity or abdomen and operate by pulsing and exchanging blood. The pumps are powered by electricity or forced air. Second-generation VADs have an internal rotor that circulates blood continuously. They are smaller and quieter than the older pulsing pumps. They are also easier to implant and last longer. VADs can be implanted either in the chest or the abdomen or can be portable.
Ventricular Assist Devices are mechanical pumps that help the heart pump blood. The most common device is placed in the left ventricle and pumps oxygen-rich blood out to the body. Another type is the biventricular VAD, which pumps blood from both sides of the heart. The type of VAD that's implanted depends on the underlying heart disease and the amount of pulmonary arterial resistance. The VAD consists of 3 main components: an inflow cannula that connects to the tip of the ventricle to allow blood to flow into the mechanical pump. The mechanical pump replaces the heart's own pumping action, while an outflow cannula connects to the aorta or pulmonary artery. The driveline connects the pump to a small computer or control unit. There are three main types of Ventricular Assist Devices: left-sided, right-sided, and biventricular. Each type helps maintain the heart's output and perfusion of the vital organs. These devices are increasingly used in patients with heart failure. The left-sided ventricular assist device (LVAD) is the most common type, while the right-sided ventricular assist device (RVAD) is used when the right-sided ventricle fails to pump blood efficiently. Transcutaneous and implantable VADs differ in their size and functionality. A transcutaneous Ventricular Assist Devices uses a pump and a power source that are external to the body. A cable connects the pump to a power source through a small hole in the abdomen. The transcutaneous VAD is commonly used as a temporary device after surgery. Implantable VADs are placed inside the body. A vent tube is used to connect the pump to the power source. The LVAD is an effective life-saving solution for end-stage cardiac disease. It offers a temporary solution as well as long-term support for patients with HFrEF. The most common VADs are the LVAD (left ventricular assist device) and the biventricular assist device (RVA). LVADs are more expensive than a ventricular assist device, but they do provide support for the left-sided heart. With advancements in technology, Ventricular Assist Devices can improve the quality of life of patients. They help the patient return to most of their normal activities. These activities include driving, working, and participating in activities that they enjoy. However, drivers may be restricted from driving or engaging in sexual activity while waiting for their heart transplant. The LVAD improves arterial blood pressure, microcirculation, and hemodynamics. It also improves end-organ perfusion and reduces neurohormonal responses in the plasma. The decompression of the LV improves transplant candidacy and increases end-organ function. Patients with a VAD will benefit from improved exercise tolerance and improved quality of life. When used correctly, the LVAD can provide a permanent alternative to a heart transplant.
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