Mechanical Heart Assist Device (Ventricular Assist Device)
Patients with a weakened heart or heart failure may qualify for a mechanical heart assist device. At the United Heart Institute in the Inland Empire, we thoroughly work with patients to evaluate their medical history and match them with a solution that helps keep their heart functioning.
What Is a Mechanical Heart Assist Device?
A mechanical heart assist device (MHAD), or ventricular assist device (VAD), is a surgically implanted device that helps the heart pump blood. By reducing the workload of the heart, it can help patients with a weakened heart or heart disease maintain healthy circulation. There are two main types of VADs available:
- Left Ventricular Assist Device: Supports the left ventricle (chamber that collects blood) of the heart. Helps pump blood from this chamber to the aorta (the heart’s main blood vessel).
- Biventricular Assist Device: Supports both the left and right ventricles in the heart for further reduced workload.
Who Needs a Ventricular Assist Device?
Your heart specialist will recommend a VAD only after careful evaluation of your situation and medical history. Patients who could benefit from a VAd are those with signs of heart failure or a weakened heart who need to reduce the heart’s workload.
Patients typically are in one of two categories:
- Patients Awaiting Transplant: A VAD can support a patient’s heart while they wait for a donor heart to become available.
- Patients Ineligible for Transplant: A heart transplant may not be viable for all patients. A VAD can then provide longer-term heart support for patients.
Are There Risks?
We minimize any risks of having a VAD through appropriate medication and careful patient monitoring. Our focus on positive patient outcomes helps reduce risks such as blood clots, infection, bleeding, and device malfunction. In the majority of cases, the benefits of having a mechanical heart assist device far outweigh the potential risks.
Learn About Your Treatment Options
Contact United Heart Institute today to work with one of our practitioners to find treatment and support for a range of heart conditions. Our focus on patient safety and optimal outcomes sets the foundation for successful heart support via a mechanical heart assist device.
Connect With Us Today
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United Heart Institute
Phone: 909.500.8683
Fax: (909) 931-1294
685 North 13th Avenue, Upland
California 91786, United States
