HeartMate 3 LVAD Therapy

How does an LVAD work?

For people with advanced heart failure, a left ventricular assist device (LVAD), also known sometimes as a heart pump, is connected to your heart and helps the pumping of blood from the left ventricle which is the primary pumping chamber. The LVAD then helps pump blood to the rest of your body, helping to relieve some of the symptoms of heart failure. Additional information on how an LVAD works can be found here: How the HeartMate 3 LVAD Works

Is an LVAD a permanent solution?

Short-term therapy can be used for patients who are awaiting a heart transplant, or as a bridge to recovery. Long-term therapy is when patients are not a heart transplant candidate due to age, weight, compliance, or it is their choice to have an LVAD over a transplant. LVADs can effectively help patients long-term relieve symptoms of advanced heart failure while awaiting transplant or other therapy or as destination therapy for those who aren’t candidates for another treatment option, giving patients and their care team valuable time.

How long can a patient live with a HeartMate 3 LVAD?

The HeartMate 3 LVAD clinical trial showed that nearly 60% of patients with a HeartMate 3 LVAD were still alive beyond five years. Individual outcomes may vary based on age, health status, and other factors.¹ Your doctor can help you understand what to expect based on your specific needs. See the clinical study.

Is an LVAD considered "life support"?

While not traditionally what patients think when they think of life support, an LVAD is in fact considered a form of life support because it is helping the heart pump blood when it's not working well enough on its own due to advanced heart failure. While it doesn't replace the heart entirely like some life support machines, it may be a life-saving treatment for people with severe symptoms.

Do you have a heartbeat with an LVAD?

Patients with an LVAD may not have a regular heart beat due to how an LVAD helps circulate blood throughout the body. Patients usually will feel a heartbeat, although it might be different from what you felt before the LVAD was implanted.

What are the risks associated with LVAD surgery?

LVAD surgery is considered a major surgery, and like all surgeries, there are risks, including bleeding, stroke, thrombosis, infection, and device-related complications. Your healthcare team will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.

Can I resume regular activities with an LVAD?

LVAD patients may return to a relatively normal life and usually the relief of symptoms often assists in allowing patients to enjoy activities that may have been previously discontinued due to advanced heart failure symptoms. However, some physical activities may be limited due to the LVAD (e.g. swimming), and you'll need to follow your doctor's advice for specific exercise and lifestyle recommendations.

What can I eat or are there diet restrictions with an LVAD?

For the most part, your LVAD will not drastically restrict your food options although sodium and fluid intake may need to be monitored as they are with any heart failure patient. Based on your specific situation, if you have any other health conditions (e.g. diabetes) your diet may be restricted. Your doctor will discuss these with you prior to your procedure.

Can I travel with an LVAD?

Many LVAD patients travel around the globe. Traveling with an LVAD is possible, but it requires advanced planning. You'll need to ensure you have enough power sources, backup equipment and a plan in place in case of emergencies. Be sure to discuss your travel plans with your healthcare team in advance of your trip. More detailed information on LVAD travel can be found here: Traveling with an LVAD

How can I prepare for my LVAD surgery?

Every patient’s journey will be different, but there are some typical steps in preparing for LVAD surgery for treatment of advanced heart failure. In preparation for your procedure there will likely be: medical evaluations, lifestyle adjustments, recovery planning and discussing the procedure risks and benefits with your healthcare team. A more detailed overview of the procedure can be found here: About the HeartMate 3 LVAD Procedure

Where can I find support for LVAD patients?

Abbott offers a patient ambassador program which connects patients considering an LVAD with those who have had the procedure. Many organizations offer support groups for LVAD patients and their families. These groups can provide valuable information and emotional support across the journey. You may find out more about this program here: HeartMate Patient Ambassadors