Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 24, 2025
16:11
Implantation of the Syncardia Total Artificial Heart
Published on: July 18, 2014
35.5K
Ventricular Assist Devices and Chronic Kidney Replacement Therapy: Technology and Outcomes
Omar Jawaid1, Anna Gaddy2, Hesham R Omar3
1Krannert Institute of Cardiology, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN.
Advances in Chronic Kidney Disease
|August 14, 2021
Summary
Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) can improve heart failure but may affect kidney function. Chronic kidney replacement therapy (KRT) is feasible in LVAD patients, requiring adjusted blood pressure monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Nephrology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Heart failure and kidney failure frequently coexist and worsen each other.
- Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are an emerging treatment for advanced heart failure.
- Pre-existing kidney dysfunction complicates LVAD candidacy and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of LVADs on kidney function.
- To discuss challenges and feasibility of kidney replacement therapies (KRTs) in LVAD recipients.
- To highlight unique considerations for managing KRT in patients with LVADs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on LVADs and kidney function.
- Analysis of complications and outcomes in LVAD patients requiring KRT.
- Discussion of specific KRT modalities (hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis) in this population.
Main Results:
- Kidney function often improves post-LVAD implantation.
- Some patients develop acute or chronic kidney disease requiring KRT.
- Chronic KRT in LVAD recipients is generally feasible and well-tolerated.
Conclusions:
- LVADs present unique challenges for kidney replacement therapy.
- Adjusted blood pressure monitoring is crucial for LVAD patients on KRT.
- Both hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis are viable options for LVAD patients needing KRT.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
218
Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy, also known as CRRT, is a procedural treatment for acute kidney injury (AKI) that gradually removes uremic toxins and fluids while maintaining acid-base balance and stabilizing electrolytes. It is particularly useful for hemodynamically unstable patients. Unlike intermittent hemodialysis, which is faster, CRRT provides a gentler approach over 24 hours, closely mimicking the function of natural kidneys. However, CRRT is not ideal for patients with...
218
01:26Extracorporeal Removal of Drugs: Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
22
Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) is an essential intervention for patients experiencing severe kidney dysfunction. This therapy offers a continuous mechanism for removing fluids and toxins from the bloodstream, leveraging the patient’s blood pressure to facilitate filtration through a specialized filter. This method contrasts with intermittent dialysis, providing a gentler and more consistent removal of waste products and excess fluid, which is particularly beneficial in...
22
01:22Heart Failure VI: Adjunct Therapies
62
Additional therapies for treating patients with heart failure (HF) may include procedural interventions, supplemental oxygen, the management of sleep disorders, and nutritional therapy.Procedural InterventionsImplantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator: For patients at risk of life-threatening arrhythmias due to severe left ventricular dysfunction, an Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD) can detect and terminate these arrhythmias, preventing sudden cardiac death and improving survival rates.
62
01:28Chronic Kidney Disease III: Interprofessional Care
152
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) requires collaborative and comprehensive management. CKD progresses through stages and can lead to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) if untreated. Interprofessional collaboration and patient education are crucial, enabling patients to manage their health and improve their quality of life.Diagnostic approach for chronic kidney diseaseThe diagnosis of CKD primarily focuses on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which assesses kidney function by measuring how well...
152
01:29Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care
73
Managing cardiomyopathy involves addressing underlying or precipitating causes, treating heart failure with medications, and implementing dietary changes and a balanced exercise and rest regimen.Lifestyle ModificationsCardiomyopathy patients should adopt a low-sodium diet to reduce fluid retention and manage heart failure. A personalized exercise and rest plan helps maintain physical fitness without overstraining the heart. Avoiding alcohol and tobacco is essential to prevent further damage to...
73
01:20Acute Kidney Injury V: Interprofessional Care
85
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) requires a collaborative healthcare approach to restore renal function and prevent complications. Essential management strategies involve monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance, adjusting medications, initiating dialysis when necessary, and providing nutritional support.Fluid and Electrolyte ManagementFluid Monitoring: Regularly monitoring body weight, central venous pressure, and urine output helps detect fluid imbalances early. Patient intake and output are...
85