Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) Program
Mechanical Blood Pump
Sometimes patients with advanced heart failure continue to get worse despite good medical therapy. The ventricular assist device (VAD) is a mechanical blood pump that takes over the function of a heart ventricle.
A single blood pump can be used to support either the left or right ventricle. In the case that both heart ventricles fail, two blood pumps can be used. This is called biventricular support.
Patients who are being considered for VAD placement are evaluated to determine if they would benefit from surgery and what type of support is needed.
A team of physicians and nurses are involved with each patient's care. Patients also work with a social worker, dietician, and other medical specialists as needed according to their medical history.
Part of the evaluation involves education by the VAD coordinator to help patients and their families understand what to expect after surgery. Patients going home with a VAD require a strong support system, such as family and friends. Following surgery, patients go through a training period with their support people. They learn how to care for the device and do the dressing changes. The VAD nurse coordinator also provides training to the local emergency medical services and cardiac rehabilitation staff.