Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 11, 2026
08:49
Use of Two Intracorporeal Ventricular Assist Devices As a Total Artificial Heart
Published on: May 11, 2018
9.9K
[End-of-life decision-making in patients with a ventricular assist device]
Sophie L Gerritse1,2, Maaike van der Graaf3, Jasper J Brugts3
1Reinier de Graaf Gasthuis, afd. Interne Oncologie en Klinische Farmacologie, Delft.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|November 19, 2025
Summary
Chronic heart failure patients in the Netherlands are increasing. Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs) offer improved survival, necessitating specialized terminal care planning for healthcare providers.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Technology
- Palliative Care
Background:
- Rising incidence of chronic heart failure (CHF) in the Netherlands, affecting ~240,000 patients.
- Increasing use of Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs) for advanced/end-stage CHF.
- LVADs demonstrate over 50% five-year survival, indicating their growing importance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the increasing prevalence of LVAD patients.
- To emphasize the need for specialized terminal care for LVAD recipients.
- To underscore the importance of proactive care planning in managing LVAD patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of current trends in CHF and LVAD utilization.
- Analysis of survival rates associated with LVAD therapy.
- Discussion of implications for primary and secondary healthcare providers.
Main Results:
- Significant patient population with CHF in the Netherlands.
- LVADs as a viable treatment option with substantial survival benefits.
- Anticipated increase in encounters with LVAD patients by healthcare professionals.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare providers must prepare for a growing number of LVAD patients.
- Specialized knowledge and proactive planning are essential for effective terminal care in LVAD patients.
- The integration of LVAD care requires a multidisciplinary approach across healthcare settings.
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