Pediatric ventricular assist devices: Trends in device utilization

Ventricular assist device (VAD) utilization for advanced heart failure support in children is increasing. Both pulsatile and continuous-flow VADs are used in children with pulsatile pumps being predominately used in small children. Pediatric VAD outcomes are improving, including decreasing mortality rates and complications, but there continues to be an undesirably high rate of neurologic events. Both small children and complex congenital heart disease continue to be challenging populations for pediatric VAD management. As medical technology continues to improve, registry data on pediatric VAD recipients will be critical for assessing outcomes and improving care in this growing population.