Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD): What is it and Who Needs One?

For individuals living with advanced heart failure, treatment options can often feel limited. With national heart transplant wait times ranging from months to years, patients find themselves seeking alternative solutions to support their health while waiting for a donor heart. This is where mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices, such as ventricular assist devices (VADs) or left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), play a critical role in heart failure treatment.

The John Ochsner Heart & Vascular Institute, home to the trusted ventricular assist device center in the Gulf South, is leading the way in providing these advanced technologies. Programs like ours aim to improve quality of life through innovative solutions like LVADs, giving patients renewed energy and hope for the future.

What is an LVAD, and how does it work?

A LVAD is a mechanical device designed to support the heart's function and improve blood flow in patients with severe heart failure. Among these devices, the LVAD focuses specifically on assisting the left ventricle, which is the heart’s primary chamber responsible for pumping oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. LVAD implantation is a highly specialized procedure, requiring expertise found in leading programs such as at the John Ochsner Heart & Vascular Institute.

The device itself is surgically implanted into the chest and attached to the heart. Working alongside a weakened heart, the LVAD helps circulate blood more effectively with less strain. Unlike artificial hearts, which replace the heart entirely, an LVAD supplements the heart’s existing function.

The LVAD consists of several key components:

• The pump: Surgically implanted and connected to the heart.
• The driveline: A cable that extends from the pump through the skin.
• The controller: A small, wearable device that regulates pump activity.
• The power source: Usually batteries or a wall outlet.

Together, this system ensures a continuous flow of blood throughout the body, giving patients a significant boost in energy and overall well-being. Thanks to this cutting-edge technology, patients can look forward to improved heart function and a renewed quality of life. Life with an LVAD

What are the benefits of LVADs in heart failure treatment?

The benefits of a LVAD are both immediate and long-lasting. For many patients, the increase in blood flow is noticeable almost immediately after the procedure. This often translates to reduced fatigue, greater mobility and the ability to resume everyday activities that were once impossible due to severe heart failure.

At Ochsner, patients also benefit from advanced heart failure treatment options tailored to their specific needs. LVADs are beneficial not only as a bridge to transplant, ensuring patients are strong enough to undergo heart transplantation, but also as a long-term solution or destination therapy for those who are not transplant candidates.

Our comprehensive care includes rigorous follow-ups to ensure the stability and success of the device. Whether it’s lifestyle adjustments, ongoing management of the driveline or detailed education on living with a mechanical circulatory support device, our team is here to empower every patient.

For those considering heart transplant support, Ochsner’s reputation as a center of excellence for left ventricular assist device implantation in Louisiana makes it a trusted resource for care.

What is recovery and life like with an LVAD?

Recovery after LVAD implantation involves a short stay in the ICU, typically ranging from a few days up to two weeks. Many patients report feeling a dramatic improvement in their condition soon after surgery, primarily because the heart has significantly less strain.

Life with an LVAD does require some changes. Activities involving full submersion in water or high-impact sports are no longer recommended, but most individuals find they can resume hobbies, work and daily tasks they weren’t able to enjoy for years. With comprehensive guidance from the John Ochsner Heart & Vascular Institute, patients learn how to manage their LVAD confidently and safely.

The device also has an impressive lifespan, with many operating efficiently for over a decade. Every step of care at Ochsner is designed to ensure patients maximize the longevity and benefits of their LVAD, helping them continue to enjoy life on their terms.

Who should consider a LVAD device?

The decision to pursue an LVAD is one that requires careful consideration and expert guidance. Typically, these devices are recommended for patients with advanced-stage heart failure who have not seen sufficient improvement with other medical therapies.

1. LVADs as a bridge to transplant:
   1. For those awaiting a heart transplant, LVADs work to stabilize heart function and overall health, making the body better prepared for the transplant process.
2. LVADs as destination therapy:
   1. When a transplant isn’t an option, whether due to age or other medical reasons, an LVAD provides a reliable, long-term solution. This treatment improves survival rates and allows individuals to maintain independence and a high quality of life.

At Ochsner’s ventricular assist device center in the Gulf South, we specialize in carefully evaluating advanced heart failure patients to determine whether LVAD therapy is the best course of action.

The John Ochsner Heart & Vascular Institute leadership in heart transplants

The John Ochsner Heart & Vascular Institute further strengthens our reputation as a leader in advanced cardiology. As one of only 13 healthcare systems in the U.S. to perform more than 1,000 heart transplants, Ochsner has cemented its place as a top destination for heart transplant care. We are Louisiana’s only heart transplant center accredited by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). Additionally, Ochsner is recognized as a center of excellence by several major insurance providers, highlighting our dedication to delivering the highest standard of care.

Our heart transplant program is an essential component of the Ochsner Heart Program, where experienced teams provide personalized support for every patient. Whether it’s offering heart transplant support or managing long-term outcomes, Ochsner’s expertise ensures the best possible results.

What sets us apart is our commitment to supporting patients not just through cutting-edge medical procedures, but also through their long-term care journeys. We are proud to provide trusted heart transplant care to the Gulf South region, helping individuals and communities overcome the challenges of heart failure.

With advanced heart failure treatment options at Ochsner, patients have access to a network of specialists, state-of-the-art facilities, and a dedication to excellence that puts us at the forefront of cardiac care.

Heart failure is a challenging diagnosis, but thanks to innovations like LVADs and the comprehensive care provided by the John Ochsner Heart & Vascular Institute, patients have more opportunities than ever to regain strength, confidence and quality of life. Whether it’s bridging the gap to a transplant or serving as a permanent solution, our team is committed to improving outcomes and creating brighter futures.