Use of an Intraperitoneal Ventricular Assist Device With a Polytetrafluoroethylene Barrier Decreases Infections

Infections of implanted VADs are associated with serious morbidity (e.g., prolonged antibiotic therapy, recurrent device infections and wound dehiscence). Placing VADs in an intraperitoneal position with a PTFE barrier to protect the viscera may reduce the prevalence of these infections.