Cardiac transplantation and ventricular assist devices

During the last decade, heart transplantation has become an almost routine clinical entity limited only by the number of donors available. Temporary ventricular support has also gained acceptance for two particular groups of patients: 1) those in cardiogenic shock with reversible ventricular failure and 2) those with irreversible ventricular failure who require a bridge to transplantation. We review the experimental work, clinical research, results, specific cases and experiences in cardiac transplantation, and the use of ventricular assist devices during the past year.