Ventricular Assist Device

Overview

Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) is a machine which is implanted to overcome heart failure because of various heart diseases and illnesses.

About Venticular Assist Device

Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) is a machine which is implanted to overcome heart failure because of various heart diseases and illnesses. VAD is placed into the chest and the wires are connected to the heart via Ventricular Assist Device Surgery.

Types of VAD are

Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) – The LVAD features a pump, which helps the weak heart pump the blood from the left ventricle (heart chamber) into the aorta (main artery that circulates oxygenated blood in the body).
Right ventricular assist device (RVAD) – This device is generally meant for short term use and supports the right ventricle of the heart. The RVAD aids the right ventricle to effectively pump blood into pulmonary artery (artery which carries blood from the heart to the lungs).
Biventricular assist device (BIVAD) – When both the ventricles face trouble with proper functioning, both right and left devices are used to help pump the blood. An alternative treatment is the implantation of a Total Artificial Heart (TAH).

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Indication

The doctor may recommend the attachment of a VAD device if the patient is suffering from a severe heart disease with risk to his life

Pre-Procedure

The doctor provides all the relevant information with regard to the usage of the device. Before the surgery strength of the body is tested. In case the body needs some extra nutrition, it is given to the patient through a feeding tube. Generally, following tests done before surgey

Blood tests
X-ray of the chest
EKG (measures the heart’s electrical impulses)
Echocardiography (uses sound waves to create moving images of the heart).

During-Procedure

VAD surgery lasts for about 4 to 6 hours, and is performed under the influence of general anaesthesia, During the surgery, Generally, following tests done before surgey

- An incision is made at the centre of the chest region, the breastbone is cut and the rib cage is opened to operate on the heart.
- A heart lung bypass machine is attached to the body to keep the blood moving, while the heart is stopped so that the surgeon can operate on it.
- The surgeon attaches the VAD and checks if it is functioning properly. Once done, the incision is stitched up.

Post-Procedure

The recovery period after the surgery generally depends on the health of the patient prior to the surgery. In case of weakness, the patient may be kept on a ventilator and a feeding tube for a few days post surgery.
Physical therapy and other assistance helps the patient gain back his lost body strength.
The patient is discharged generally after about 2 weeks.
Although there are certain complications involved while going through a VAD surgery, many patients note a great improvement in their quality of life post-surgery. Exercise, travelling and other normal activities can be indulged in again and some patients are even allowed to drive.

Risk and Complication

Risks of undergoing a VAD surgery are
- Formation of blood clots
- Excessive bleeding
- Development of infection
- Faulty functioning of the VAD device
- Failure of the heart

Why NICE ?

We are associated with the best hospitals globally having the emergency infrastructure, fully equipped with the latest technologies and techniques to overcome from every emergency condition.
Our team of doctors are highly experienced in ‘Emergency Patient Management’ and work together to save the patient.
Consultation from doctors through e-mail, phone, and video calling.
Rehabilitation programs are organized to assist complex surgery patients.
Complete support and assistance being given before and after treatment.
Cost of treatment is quite less as compared to other service providers.
We are always ready to offer our helping hand and our services are available 24/7.