title: Left ventricular assist device-associated infections.
abstract: The left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is a mechanical pump that supplements or replaces the function of a damaged left ventricle. Although LVAD support is associated with improved survival and quality of life, infectious complications remain a major limitation. The authors examine the epidemiology of LVAD-associated infections and review current diagnostic, treatment, and management strategies. Novel evidence-based approaches to infection prevention remain critical because the number of patients receiving long-term mechanical support continues to burgeon.
authors.affiliation: Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, 1500 East Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
authors.forename: Sophia
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Califano
authors.forename: Francis D
authors.initials: FD
authors.lastname: Pagani
authors.forename: Preeti N
authors.initials: PN
authors.lastname: Malani
mesh_terms: D000890:Anti-Infective Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001424:Bacterial Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000628:therapy; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000601:surgery*; D006353:Heart-Assist Devices / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D009181:Mycoses / Q000382:microbiology / Q000628:therapy; D016459:Prosthesis-Related Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000628:therapy; D012307:Risk Factors; D016277:Ventricular Function, Left
chemical_list: D000890:Anti-Infective Agents