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Ventricular assist device-related infections
Rachel J Gordon1, Bianca Quagliarello, Franklin D Lowy
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY 10032, USA. rj216@columbia.edu
The Lancet. Infectious Diseases
|June 23, 2006
Summary
Ventricular assist devices (VADs) offer life-saving support for advanced heart failure patients when transplants are unavailable. This review details VADs, focusing on device-related infections, their diagnosis, and management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Heart failure is a major cause of death globally, with donor heart supply insufficient for all patients needing transplants.
- Ventricular assist devices (VADs) offer an alternative, providing temporary or permanent support, improving survival and quality of life.
- Despite benefits, VADs are underutilized due to complications, notably device-related infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce ventricular assist devices (VADs).
- To explore the nature, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of VAD-related infections.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on VADs and associated infections.
- Analysis of infection rates, pathogenesis, diagnostic challenges, and therapeutic approaches.
Main Results:
- VAD-related infections occur in 18-59% of cases, impacting device function and patient outcomes.
- Infections can affect any device component, leading to significant morbidity and mortality.
- Diagnosis can be challenging, requiring specific strategies for effective management.
Conclusions:
- VADs are crucial for advanced heart failure management but face challenges with infection complications.
- Effective strategies for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of VAD-related infections are essential for improving patient outcomes.
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