Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)

A left ventricular assist device, or LVAD, is a mechanical heart pump used to treat advanced heart failure. This device helps your heart pump blood more effectively, which may ease symptoms and support a better quality of life. Novant Health heart and vascular specialists guide you through every step, from evaluation to recovery, with care built around your needs.

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What is Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)?

A left ventricular assist device is sometimes called a heart pump. It's a mechanical device surgically attached to your heart that helps move blood from the left ventricle to the aorta, so oxygen-rich blood can reach the rest of your body. An LVAD may be recommended for patients with end-stage heart failure whose hearts aren't responding well to medication alone. The goal of LVAD therapy is to improve heart function and support a better quality of life.

Common reasons for an LVAD

Your cardiologist may recommend an LVAD if you're living with advanced heart failure and other treatments haven't provided enough relief. Common reasons include:

A significant decline in your heart's ejection fraction, the measure of how well your heart pumps blood
Low cardiac output that hasn't improved with medication
Symptoms of heart failure that continue to worsen despite treatment
The need for additional heart support while waiting for a heart transplant
End-stage heart failure that requires long-term mechanical support

Your care team will evaluate your heart function, overall health and treatment history to determine if an LVAD is right for you.

Treatment options

LVAD implantation is a surgical procedure, but it's often considered after other treatment approaches have been explored. Your care team may discuss the following options with you:

Medication management to help the heart pump more effectively before considering surgical options
Other implantable devices, such as an implantable cardioverter defibrillator, for patients who don't yet require an LVAD
LVAD implantation surgery, which involves attaching the device to the heart to support blood flow to the body
LVAD as a bridge to transplant for patients awaiting a donor heart
LVAD as a long-term treatment for patients who aren't candidates for a heart transplant

Your cardiologist and surgical team will explain which option fits your specific condition and goals.

Recovery & rehabilitation

Recovery after LVAD surgery involves both hospital care and an adjustment period at home. Your care team will support you at every stage.

A hospital stay is required after surgery so your team can monitor your heart function and incision healing
You'll learn how to care for your device, including how to manage its external components and batteries
Cardiac rehabilitation may help you rebuild strength and stamina gradually
Regular follow-up appointments help your care team track your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed
Many patients experience improved energy and quality of life as they adjust to life with an LVAD

Recovery timelines vary from person to person. Your care team will help set realistic expectations based on your health and progress.

Risk factors

As with any heart surgery, LVAD implantation carries some risks, including infection, bleeding or blood clots. Your care team will carefully review your health history to determine if an LVAD is a safe option for you. They'll discuss potential complications, what to watch for after surgery and how to reduce your risk of infection around the device's external components. Your cardiologist and surgical team will answer your questions and support you before, during and after treatment, so you feel confident and informed at every step.

A medical illustration of a heart with an LVAD device installed.

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Videos in our patient education library are available to help you gain a general understanding of the condition or procedure. Read disclaimer.

Why is treatment important?

Living with advanced heart failure can affect your energy, comfort and daily life. An LVAD may help your heart work more effectively, easing symptoms and supporting your ability to do more of what you enjoy. Your Novant healthcare team is here to guide you toward a treatment plan that fits your needs.

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