Is Native Aortic Valve Commissural Fusion in Patients With Long-term Left Ventricular Assist Devices Associated With Clinically Important Aortic Insufficiency?

Commissural fusion of the native aortic valve occurs in a significant number of patients receiving long-term LVAD support and can necessitate increased levels of LVAD support. Recognition of this phenomenon may allow development of strategies to minimize commissural fusion and extend LVAD pump life.