LVAD Treatment for Heart Failure at TX Hospitals in Hyderabad
At TX Hospital, a leading Hyderabad Heart Specialist Hospital, we understand the challenges that come with advanced heart failure. When the heart’s ability to pump blood diminishes, it can lead to symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling. For patients in these situations, the heart’s ability to supply the body with oxygen-rich blood is compromised, affecting quality of life. That’s where the Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) comes in-a life-changing solution that can help manage heart failure and give patients a second chance at life.
What is an LVAD and Who needs it?
A Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) is a surgically implanted, battery-operated mechanical pump that supports the function of the heart’s left ventricle, the main chamber responsible for pumping oxygen-rich blood to the body.
An LVAD is typically recommended for patients with advanced or end-stage heart failure who are not responding well to medication or lifestyle changes. It may also be used in the following conditions :
- Bridge to Transplant: For patients waiting for a heart transplant, the LVAD helps maintain circulation and keeps the body in optimal condition.
- Destination Therapy: For patients who are not candidates for a transplant, an LVAD offers long-term support, improving both survival and quality of life.
- Bridge to Recovery: In some cases, the LVAD provides temporary support to allow the heart time to heal and potentially recover.
While not a cure for heart failure, LVADs significantly enhance the quality of life and survival for many patients, enabling them to perform daily activities with reduced symptoms and improved circulation
How Does an LVAD Work?
The LVAD is surgically implanted inside the chest and is connected to the heart and the aorta. This allows the device to take over the pumping function of the heart’s left ventricle. The device is powered by rechargeable batteries or can be plugged into an electrical outlet, ensuring it runs continuously. The driveline, which is a cable that exits the body, connects the internal pump to an external controller, which helps manage the device and monitor its functions.
The LVAD Implantation Procedure
The LVAD implantation is performed through open-heart surgery, which typically lasts between 4 to 8 hours. Under general anaesthesia, a midline incision is made in the chest, and the heart is temporarily stopped while a heart-lung bypass machine takes over circulation. The LVAD is then implanted, and its driveline is threaded through the skin to connect the device to an external controller and power supply.
After the surgery, patients are monitored closely in the ICU for recovery. The initial recovery period typically takes about 2–3 weeks in the hospital, where patients will also learn how to care for the LVAD and manage any device-related issues.
Post-Surgery Care and Recovery
After an LVAD implantation, the focus is on recovery and adjusting to life with the device. During your hospital stay, you will receive training on how to care for your LVAD, charge its batteries, and monitor its performance. It’s important to maintain a healthy diet, avoid strenuous activities like contact sports, and ensure the driveline is protected at all times.
Follow-up care is crucial. Patients typically visit the hospital once a week for the first month, then bi-weekly for the following two months, and monthly thereafter. Your healthcare team will work closely with you to ensure the LVAD continues to function optimally and address any concerns.
Benefits of an LVAD
An LVAD provides numerous benefits, including:
- Improved Blood Flow: By assisting the heart in pumping blood, an LVAD helps maintain proper circulation to vital organs like the brain, kidneys, and liver.
- Symptom Relief: LVADs reduce fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling, allowing patients to engage in daily activities with more energy.
- Increased Survival: LVADs enhance survival rates for patients with end-stage heart failure, giving them a chance to live longer and better.
- Improved Quality of Life: With reduced heart failure symptoms, patients can enjoy a higher quality of life and even participate in cardiac rehabilitation programs.
If you or a loved one is living with advanced heart failure, an LVAD may be a life-changing treatment option. Contact TX Hospitals cardiac care team to learn more about LVAD therapy and determine if it’s the right solution for your needs.
Call to Action:
For more information or to schedule a consultation with one of our expert cardiothoracic surgeons in Hyderabad, please contact us at TX Hospitals. Our team is here to guide you through every step of your heart failure treatment journey.
FAQs About Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)
An LVAD is a mechanical pump implanted in the chest to help the heart’s left ventricle pump blood, improving circulation throughout the body.
LVADs are typically recommended for patients with advanced heart failure who are not responding to medication or lifestyle changes, or those awaiting a heart transplant.
The surgery usually takes between 4 to 8 hours, performed under general anesthesia with the assistance of a heart-lung bypass machine.
Patients generally stay in the hospital for 2–3 weeks to recover, during which they learn to manage the LVAD and its components.
LVADs improve blood flow, reduce symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath, and enhance survival and quality of life for heart failure patients.
TX Hospitals offers specialized cardiac care with advanced technology and a skilled team, ensuring optimal treatment and patient outcomes.