ventricular assist device
Also written as: VAD — ventricular assist device
Mechanical pump implanted to support failing heart function as bridge therapy or destination therapy.
Full Definition
A ventricular assist device (VAD) is a mechanical circulatory support system that helps pump blood from the heart to the rest of the body. VADs can support the left ventricle (LVAD), right ventricle (RVAD), or both ventricles (BiVAD). They are used as bridge-to-transplant therapy for patients awaiting heart transplantation, bridge-to-recovery for potentially reversible heart failure, or as destination therapy for patients ineligible for transplantation. Modern devices are typically continuous-flow centrifugal or axial pumps that provide significant improvement in functional capacity and quality of life for end-stage heart failure patients.
Usage
Usage note: Specify LVAD, RVAD, or BiVAD; distinguish from temporary support devices like ECMO or IABP.
In Context
- "The patient underwent LVAD implantation as destination therapy for end-stage cardiomyopathy." — Surgical procedure note
- "Ventricular assist device support improved the patient's functional status dramatically." — Follow-up assessment