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Left ventricular assist devices in the elderly: Marching forward with cautions
Parag C Patel1, Basar Sareyyupoglu2, Si M Pham2
1Departments of Transplantation, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA.
Journal of Cardiac Surgery
|September 28, 2020
Summary
Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) therapy offers improved survival and quality of life for elderly patients with heart failure. Earlier selection and implementation can enhance outcomes and economic feasibility.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Geriatrics
- Medical Technology
Background:
- Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a significant health concern in the elderly.
- Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are increasingly utilized for advanced heart failure in older adults.
- LVAD therapy presents a higher cost compared to traditional medical management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the role and feasibility of LVAD therapy in the elderly population.
- To emphasize the importance of careful patient selection for LVAD implantation.
- To explore the economic implications of LVAD therapy in older patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on LVAD use in elderly patients.
- Analysis of survival and quality of life data for LVAD recipients.
- Assessment of cost-effectiveness and financial burden of LVAD therapy.
Main Results:
- LVAD therapy improves survival and quality of life in elderly patients, particularly those with low disease acuity.
- Early LVAD implementation is associated with better outcomes.
- While costly, LVAD therapy's financial burden is decreasing due to technical and clinical advancements.
Conclusions:
- LVAD therapy is a viable option for select elderly patients with heart failure.
- Optimizing patient selection and timing of LVAD implantation is critical for success.
- Advancements in technology and management are making LVAD therapy more economically feasible for the elderly.
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