There are many types of ventricular assist devices. The type of device used is based on the specific needs of the patient. Your doctor and nurse will provide you with information about the specific device used.
The following are examples of several devices used at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation:
First Generation Pulsatile Pumps
Fully supports the right and left ventricles
Thoratec Extracorporeal Biventricular®
Thoratec
Second Generation Non-Pulsatile Continuous Flow Pumps
Second generation continuous flow pumps are much smaller and less traumatic to implant.
Cleveland Clinic surgeons are participating in two randomized trials comparing permanent support with a pulsatile (Novacor) and a continuous flow (Debakey) pump to the Heartmate device.
Recent data from the REMATCH trial have underscored the significant benefit obtained with permanent device placement or “destination” therapy over that of medical therapy alone. For selected individuals with severe, refractory heart failure, we can now offer the option of permanent LVAD therapy.
