Curricular Self-management for patients on ventricular assist device support decreases depression: A multicenter...

Utilization of ventricular assist device (VAD) support in patients with end-stage heart failure is well advanced. Recent studies emphasize the need to develop and evaluate evidence-based psychosocial support interventions for patients following VAD implantation.

A national, multi-center study in four established German heart centers was initiated. An evidence-based VAD curriculum was developed; a randomized controlled trial evaluated the impact of the interprofessional intervention over time. Primary combined endpoint was the occurrence of adverse events (thromboembolic events, driveline infections, bleeding, rehospitalization, and death); secondary endpoints were psychosocial outcomes (anxiety, depression [HADS], quality of life [QoLVAD], social support [FSoZu], and self-management [SELMA]). A total of 140 patients were randomized block-wise to intervention (IG n = 70) or control (CG n = 70). Center-effects were considered. Instruments were completed at four time points (T0-T3).

At baseline, intervention group (IG) patients were 19% female (control group [CG] 19%; p = 0.982); 58 ± 11 years. (CG 58 ± 11 years.; p = 0.966); 80% were implanted electively (CG 79%; p = 0.968). No significant difference in primary endpoint was found between IG versus CG (p > 0.05). For secondary endpoints, mixed linear regression revealed a significant reduction in depression scores in IG compared to CG (est. 1.18; 95% CI -2.17 to -0.18; p = 0.021). Clinically significant reductions in anxiety were greater in IG patients between T0 and T3 (IG 51.9%; CG 40.7%); increased anxiety was reported in 3.7% IG (11.1% CG). Mixed linear regression analyses favored IG (all >0.05) for QoL, social support, and self-management.

A comprehensive curricular VAD intervention has potential to decrease depression levels and improve psychosocial outcomes of patients on VAD support.