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Updated: Nov 27, 2025
07:39
Use of a Percutaneous Ventricular Assist Device/Left Atrium to Femoral Artery Bypass System for Cardiogenic Shock
Published on: August 16, 2021
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Pharmacotherapy for durable left ventricular assist devices
Ian B Hollis1, Christina T Doligalski1, Douglas J Jennings2
1Department of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina Medical Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.
Pharmacotherapy
|December 5, 2020
Summary
Optimizing medication management for patients with durable, continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) is crucial for best outcomes. This review synthesizes recent pharmacotherapy research to guide current best practices.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) significantly improve outcomes in advanced heart failure.
- Current medication management for LVAD patients largely relies on 2013 International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) guidelines.
- Recent advancements in pharmacotherapy have enhanced understanding of optimal LVAD patient medication management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of current optimal medication management strategies for patients with durable, continuous-flow LVADs.
- To synthesize evidence from pharmacotherapy publications since 2013 to inform best practices.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of the MEDLINE® database for publications from 2013 onwards.
- Inclusion of trials related to HeartMate II™, HeartMate™ 3, and HeartWare™ HVAD™ systems.
- Prioritization of study designs from randomized controlled trials to case series, excluding most case reports.
Main Results:
- Identification of major domains in LVAD medication management.
- Synthesis of recent multidisciplinary pharmacotherapy findings.
- Focus on evidence-based medication practices for continuous-flow LVADs.
Conclusions:
- Optimal medication management is essential for maximizing clinical outcomes in LVAD recipients.
- This review consolidates current knowledge on pharmacotherapy for durable, continuous-flow LVADs.
- Updated guidance is needed to reflect advancements in LVAD patient care and medication.
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