What to expect during your evaluation
Before moving forward with an LVAD, you’ll have a comprehensive evaluation with one of our cardiology specialists. This helps us determine whether an LVAD is the right option for you. The evaluation includes:
Blood and lab work:
• Blood testing.
• Blood and tissue typing.
• Drug or tobacco screening.
Heart and lung testing:
• Echocardiogram.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG).
• Cardiopulmonary stress test.
• Pulmonary function tests.
Imaging and other diagnostics:
• Chest CT scan.
• Abdominal ultrasound.
• Vascular Doppler studies.
• Bone density scan.
Mobility and function:
• 6-minute walk test.
Dental health:
• Dental exam, including X-rays.
What happens next?
Once your evaluation is done, your care team will meet to review the results. You’ll get a recommendation such as:
• Heart transplant.
• LVAD while waiting for transplant.
• LVAD as a long-term option.
• Continuing medical care and supportive care.
Your coordinator will call you to walk through the plan.
What is LVAD surgery like?
• A heart surgeon places the pump inside your chest and connects it to your heart.
• You’ll receive a small incision in your stomach for the driveline.
• You’ll spend several days in the ICU after surgery, and then move to a regular heart floor.
• Our team will show you and your caregiver how to care for the pump before you go home.
• Most patients leave the hospital about three weeks after surgery.
Living with an LVAD
An LVAD can help you feel better and live longer. You’ll likely have more energy, less shortness of breath and be able to enjoy daily life again.
You can:
• Travel (with a plan).
• Return to some types of work.
• Enjoy an active lifestyle.
Things you’ll need to avoid:
• Swimming, hot tubs or baths
• Contact sports.
• Anything that may damage your pump or driveline.
You’ll also need to:
• Have weekly blood draws at your local lab.
• Visit your heart doctor once a month.
• Take medications as prescribed (including blood thinners).
• Change your driveline bandage twice a week.
While an LVAD can improve your quality of life and extend survival, it is not a cure. It comes with risks, such as infection or blood clots, and requires a commitment to ongoing care and support.