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Updated: Aug 6, 2026
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Implantation of Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) in Juvenile Landrace Swine: A LVAD Implantation Model of Pediatric Heart Failure
Published on: January 16, 2026
Novel Explantation Protocol for Cardiac Recovery and Device Weaning Post-Left Ventricular Assist Device Therapy: A
Aarti Kumar1, Ashley J Mitchell2, Negeen Shahandeh3
1From the Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California.
ASAIO Journal (American Society for Artificial Internal Organs : 1992)
|August 5, 2026
Summary
This study explored a protocol for removing left ventricular assist devices (LVADs). Two of three patients successfully lived without their LVADs, suggesting potential for device explantation in select heart failure patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
- Heart Failure Management
Background:
- Durable left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) can improve myocardial function.
- No established guidelines exist for determining LVAD explantation eligibility.
- Patient selection for LVAD removal remains a clinical challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a multimodality protocol for assessing LVAD explantation appropriateness.
- To identify potential candidates for successful LVAD device-free survival.
- To inform the development of standardized guidelines for LVAD explantation.
Main Methods:
- Single-center case series of three patients evaluated for LVAD explantation.
- Rigorous multimodality assessment protocol used.
- Multidisciplinary team discussions informed explantation decisions.
Main Results:
- Two out of three patients achieved successful device-free survival post-explantation.
- One patient required heart transplantation 2 months after LVAD removal.
- The protocol demonstrated feasibility in assessing explantation candidates.
Conclusions:
- A rigorous protocol may identify suitable candidates for LVAD explantation.
- Further broader evaluation is needed to develop standardized explantation guidelines.
- LVAD explantation is a viable option for select heart failure patients with improved ventricular function.
