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Updated: Jun 15, 2026
16:11
Implantation of the Syncardia Total Artificial Heart
Published on: July 18, 2014
Suicide after ventricular assist device implantation.
Katharina Tigges-Limmer1, Michael Schönbrodt, Daniela Roefe
1Clinic for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Heart Center North Rhine-Westphalia, Ruhr-University of Bochum, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany. KTigges-Limmer@hdz-nrw.de
Summary
Patients with advanced heart failure often experience depression and anxiety, increasing suicide risk. A case study highlights the need for robust psychological support and screening for patients with left ventricular assist devices.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Psychiatry
- Medical Ethics
Background:
- End-stage heart failure (EHF) patients exhibit high rates of depression and anxiety.
- These psychological comorbidities are linked to increased suicide risk in this population.
- Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are a treatment option for EHF, but long-term psychological impacts require further study.
Observation:
- A 69-year-old male patient with depression died by suicide 3 years post-LVAD implantation.
- The suicide method involved disconnecting the LVAD driveline.
- This case underscores the critical need for comprehensive psychological assessment and ongoing support.
Findings:
- The patient had a history of depression and psychiatric challenges.
- The unique circumstances of LVAD dependency may contribute to psychological distress.
- This case highlights a potential, albeit rare, method of suicide in LVAD patients.
Implications:
- Pre-implant psychological screening is crucial for identifying at-risk individuals.
- Long-term, regular psychological support is essential for LVAD recipients.
- Further qualitative research is needed to understand patient experiences and identify suicide risk factors.
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