LVAD/Mechanical Circulatory Support

Living with advanced heart failure

If you are living with advanced heart failure, everyday activities can become more difficult.
You may feel tired, short of breath or limited in what you can do.

Our goal is to help you feel stronger, improve your symptoms and support you in living as fully as possible.

Our Advanced Heart Failure Program brings together specialists in heart failure, mechanical circulatory support and heart transplant care. Your care team may include cardiologists, surgeons, advanced practice providers, nurses and rehabilitation specialists who work together to guide your care.

Advanced treatment options

When heart failure becomes severe, your heart may not be able to pump enough blood to meet your body’s needs.

Your care team may talk with you about advanced treatment options, including:

• Medical therapy.
• Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices.
• Heart transplant.

Not every patient is a candidate for transplant. Some patients may need additional support to improve symptoms or stabilize their condition.

What is a ventricular assist device (VAD)?

A ventricular assist device, or VAD, is a mechanical pump that helps your heart move blood throughout your body.

The device is placed inside your chest and works alongside your heart. A small external controller and power source help operate the device.

VADs can improve blood flow, reduce symptoms and help many patients return to daily activities.

How VADs are used

VADs may be used in different ways depending on your condition and goals.

• Bridge to transplant: Supports your heart while you wait for a transplant.
• Destination therapy: A long-term option if a transplant is not recommended.

Your care team will help determine the best approach for you.

Who may be a candidate

You may be considered for a VAD if you have advanced heart failure and:

• Your symptoms are not improving with medication.
• You have difficulty with daily activities.
• Your heart is no longer pumping effectively.

Your care team will complete a full evaluation to determine if this treatment is right for you.

Your care team

You will be supported by a team that specializes in advanced heart failure care, including:

• Heart failure cardiologists.
• Cardiothoracic surgeons.
• VAD coordinators and nurses.
• Rehabilitation specialists.
• Social workers and support staff.

This team works together to support you before, during and after treatment.

Why choose Nebraska Medicine

• Established LVAD program with extensive experience.
• Multidisciplinary team supporting every stage of care.
• Access to advanced technology, including the HeartMate 3 device.
• The Joint Commission-certified heart failure program.
• Active research and innovation in advanced heart failure care.

Learn more about VAD treatment

If you are considering a VAD or have been referred for evaluation, the guides below can help you understand what to expect.

• LVAD surgery and recovery.
• Living with an LVAD.
• Risks and benefits of a VAD.
• VAD support and resources.

Next steps

If you or a loved one has advanced heart failure, we are here to help.

Call 800.922.0000 to learn more or schedule an evaluation.