Ventricular assist device vad program

A ventricular assist device or VAD is a surgically implanted pump that supports the pumping function of the heart. It can be used as a temporary measure for instance, prior to a heart transplant or as lifelong support for older individuals or for those who are not eligible for transplantation for a variety of reasons.

For patients who meet the right criteria, these devices can dramatically improve quality of life, help maintain or improve organ function, reduce symptoms such as breathlessness and fatigue — and prolong life. When heart disease and symptoms are severe, patients may qualify for heart transplantation. To be considered for transplantation, patients must be first evaluated and then accepted for the transplant waiting list.

Bridge to Transplantation. There are far fewer donor hearts available for transplantation than there are patients who might benefit from them and living with advanced heart disease. In some cases, patients who become unstable or are not doing well on medical therapy can be treated with the placement of a VAD until it is eventually replaced by a donor heart.

If anything comes up, you can call or text our dedicated nurse line any time, day or night. Resuming their normal lives with a VAD has worked wonders for many of our patients. Some kids and teens get back to sports and other normal activities, and become so comfortable with their VADs that they choose to delay transplant and keep them for months or longer.

VADs small enough to be used in children first became available in the early s. Our team immediately started studying and training with them, so we could provide this lifeline to children who need it. We have implanted more than VAD devices, giving us the experience and expertise to select the right VAD for your child and give them the best opportunity for long-term success.

We also seek improvements to VAD care as part of a global community of experts that conducts research and shares information. One of our own team members developed content for a digital app for children who go home with their VAD. The app allows you and your child to keep a daily log of information about their health and VAD readings, which our care team uses to provide you with up-to-date insights and advice.

Our commitment to keeping you safe We have never taken for granted the sacred trust you place in us to care for your child, and today we are more grateful than ever for that privilege. Cardiac rehabilitation is a personalized exercise and education program that teaches you ways to improve your heart health after heart surgery.

Cardiac rehabilitation helps you add healthy lifestyle changes — such as exercise, a heart-healthy diet and stress management — into your life. If you have a VAD implanted to help your heart pump blood while you wait for a heart transplant, you'll remain in close contact with your doctor and transplant center while you're on the waiting list.

It's likely that you'll have some restrictions on how far away you should be from the hospital in case a donor heart becomes available. If you're feeling anxious or frustrated about living with a VAD , consider sharing your thoughts and feelings with your doctors, family or professional counselor.

Some people also find it helpful to join a support group with others who are going through or have gone through similar experiences. A support group gives you the opportunity to talk about personal experiences and feelings and coping strategies. Explore Mayo Clinic studies of tests and procedures to help prevent, detect, treat or manage conditions. Ventricular assist device care at Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission.

Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Ventricular assist device VAD Overview. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Ventricular assist device coordinator consultation at Mayo Clinic A ventricular assist device VAD coordinator discusses a ventricular assist device with a person.

Left ventricular assist device. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Yancy CW, et al. Ventricular assist device. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Accessed June 8, Miller LW, et al. Evolution of left ventricular assist device therapy for advanced heart failure: A review.

JAMA Cardiology. Vieira JL, et al. Mechanical circulatory support devices in advanced heart failure: and beyond. Progress in Cardiovascular Diseases. Bonow RO, et al. Mechanical circulatory support. Elsevier; Brown AY. Allscripts EPSi. Mayo Clinic. May 21, How can I prepare for heart surgery? American Heart Association. Office of Patient Education.

Getting ready for heart surgery. Mayo Clinic; Brown DL. Ventricular assist device therapy in advanced heart failure.