Management of Patients with Left Ventricular Assist Device during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Gassan Moady1,2, Tuvia Ben Gal3,4, Shaul Atar1,2

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Galilee Medical Center, 1 Ben Tzvi Blvd., Nahariya 2210001, Israel.

Insights

The COVID-19 pandemic presents unique challenges for patients with left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), impacting cardiovascular health and requiring specialized management strategies for optimal outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Medical Devices

Background:

  • COVID-19 affects multiple organs, including the cardiovascular system.
  • Patients with cardiovascular disease face increased risks.
  • Advanced heart failure patients often utilize left ventricular assist devices (LVADs).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on LVAD patients.
  • To provide recommendations for managing LVAD patients during the pandemic.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review on COVID-19 and LVAD patient management.
  • Analysis of cardiovascular complications and psychological effects.

Main Results:

  • COVID-19 poses risks including right ventricular involvement, hemodynamic changes, and bleeding/clotting issues.
  • Psychological impact of social isolation is significant for LVAD patients.

Conclusions:

  • A multidisciplinary approach is crucial for LVAD patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Transfer to specialized centers is recommended for suspected COVID-19 cases in VAD patients.

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