Ventricular Assist Devices: The Basics

As the cases of heart failure continue to rise, more ventricular assist devices are likely to be implanted. Providers in a variety of care environments are more likely to see patients with ventricular assist devices because they are living longer; therefore, it is necessary for providers to understand the unique care and complications related to these devices, such as thrombosis, stroke, bleeding, right-sided heart failure, ventricular dysrhythmias, and infection. The current literature regarding the complications and management of patients with these devices was reviewed and summarized, with a focus on HeartWare (HeartWare International Inc, Framingham, MA) and HeartMate II (Thoratec Corp, Pleasanton, CA).