Readmissions Following Implantation of a Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Device

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Medical Device Technology

Background:

• Continuous flow left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are crucial for managing advanced heart failure.
• Understanding readmission patterns is vital for optimizing patient care and device management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze readmission data for patients receiving continuous flow LVADs.
• To identify reasons for readmission, frequency, and impact on patient support time.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 88 patients implanted with continuous flow LVADs (June 2006 - June 2014).
• Data collected included reason for readmission, frequency, length of stay, and procedures.
• Patient follow-up occurred in an LVAD clinic with mandatory readmission reporting.

Main Results:

• 63% of patients experienced at least one readmission, averaging nine days per stay.
• Infection was the primary reason for readmission (17%).
• Despite readmissions, patients spent 86% of their support time outside the hospital.

Conclusions:

• Readmissions after LVAD implantation are frequent but manageable.
• Continuous flow LVADs allow patients to spend the majority of their support time at home, improving quality of life.