National trends and outcomes in device-related thromboembolic complications and malfunction among heart transplant candidates supported with continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices in the United States

The incidence of LVAD-TE and LVAD-M on the United States waiting list has increased since 2011, with significant regional variation. LVAD-TE and LVAD-M have a detrimental effect on waiting list survival and transplant candidacy. In candidates who develop an LVAD-TE, a conservative approach, without LVAD exchange or HT, carries the highest risk of death. These results should be considered in the ongoing efforts to optimize the allocation of donor hearts.