Managing the post-left ventricular assist device patient.
The implantation of ventricular assist devices allows the opportunity for patients with intractable heart failure to have improved quality and quantity of life. The devices may be implanted after failed attempts to wean from bypass, as a bridge to transplantation, or as destination therapy. Key issues following the implantation of assist devices include the prevention of right ventricular failure, appropriate pharmacologic management, prevention and management of infection, and detection and treatment of device dysfunction.
Klodell
Charles T
CT
Department of Surgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA. klodell@surgery.ufl.edu
Staples
Edward D
ED
Aranda
Juan M
JM
Schofield
Richard S
RS
Hill
James A
JA
Pauly
Daniel F
DF
Beaver
Thomas M
TM
D001243:Assisted Circulation; D002303:Cardiac Output, Low; D006348:Cardiac Surgical Procedures / Q000534:rehabilitation; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*; D006352:Heart Ventricles / Q000601:surgery; D006353:Heart-Assist Devices; D006801:Humans; D011182:Postoperative Care; D013997:Time Factors; D018487:Ventricular Dysfunction, Left / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*