Ventricular assist device infections

Ventricular Assist Devices(VAD) are the commonest form of cardiac mechanical support, used as bridge to transplantation but also as destination therapy in non-transplant-eligible patients in whom transplantation is considered unsuitable based on age criteria. Infections are common and can significantly impact on patient outcome. Strategies to prevent and treat infections have not been assessed by randomised controlled trials, a difficult task due to the multiplicity of devices and their ongoing evolution. This review summarises the recent literature on infections in VAD-supported patients, including the recently proposed definitions, microbiology, diagnosis, treatment and preventive strategies.