HeartMate II LVAD New Generation Pump, now implanted at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center

What is a Ventricular Assist Device (VAD)?

The VAD is an electric heart assist device designed to pump blood to the body in patients with a failing left ventricle.  VADs have several uses: bridge to transplantation, bridge to recovery, and permanent therapy for end-stage heart failure.  In the United States, there are nearly 4,000 people on the heart transplant waiting list.  Only about 2,000 hearts become available per year.  The LVAD can be used “bridge” these patients to transplant when waiting is no longer possible.  Once in a while, a patient’s heart will recover enough that the device can be removed permanently.

How long will the surgery last?

VAD implantation requires a surgery that lasts about 8 to 12 hours.  After the surgery the patient will be taken to the Thoracic Intensive Care Unit (801).

While the patient is in surgery, family members/friends will wait in a waiting room where our staff will update them regarding progress.  Family/friends can get a pager from the volunteer in the ICU waiting room, allowing them to be contacted when out of the room.

What external components are involved with the VAD?

All devices require external power sources.  This may be batteries, a power base unit, or an external driver depending on the type of VAD.  All VADs also require a controller.

What will life be like on the VAD?

Life with a VAD has few restrictions.  We encourage exercise, travel, and other activities that patients enjoyed before receiving a device.  Here is a list of a few:

• Travel by airplane, commercial boat, or car
• Mow the lawn, garden, or other yard work
• Work with properly grounded power tools
• Exercise like walking, biking, short hikes
• Go to the movie theater, dinner, etc.
• Shower