What is and LVAD and How Does It Work?
Learn how a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) works, why it’s used, and how it transforms the lives of patients living with advanced heart failure.
What is an LVAD?
An LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device) is a mechanical pump that helps the heart deliver blood to the body. It is often used for patients with advanced heart failure, when the heart is too weak to function effectively on its own.
The device is surgically implanted and connects the heart’s left ventricle (the main pumping chamber) to the aorta (the main artery that carries blood to the rest of the body). The LVAD assists the heart in circulating blood, helping to relieve symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid retention.
Why Do People Need an LVAD?
LVADs are typically used for people with advanced congestive heart failure or other forms of severe cardiac dysfunction. Depending on the situation, the LVAD may be used as:
- Bridge to Transplant: Helping a patient survive until they receive a heart transplant.
- Destination Therapy: Used long-term for patients who are not eligible for a transplant.
- Bridge to Recovery: Supporting the heart temporarily while it heals (less common).
How Does an LVAD Work?
The LVAD consists of three main components:
- The Pump: Implanted inside the chest and connected to the heart.
- Driveline Cable: Exits the body through the abdomen and connects the pump to external equipment.
- External Controller and Batteries: Worn outside the body (usually in a shoulder bag or belt) to power and manage the device.
The pump continuously draws blood from the left ventricle and pushes it into the aorta. Because many LVADs provide a continuous flow, patients may not have a palpable pulse — which is completely normal with the device.
Living with an LVAD
Life with an LVAD comes with challenges and responsibilities — but it also offers a new chance at life. Patients must learn how to manage their equipment, avoid infection at the driveline site, and stay connected to their care team.
That said, many people go on to live full and active lives with an LVAD. I’ve had mine since 2015, and it gave me the strength to raise my children, rediscover my passion for photography, and launch this platform, LVAD Talk.
Who is a Candidate for an LVAD?
Candidates for an LVAD typically include patients with:
- End-stage heart failure (Class III or IV)
- Reduced ejection fraction (EF < 25%)
- Symptoms despite optimal medical therapy
- No major contraindications to surgery
A thorough evaluation by a heart failure specialist, cardiologist, or transplant center is essential to determine if an LVAD is the right option.
Is an LVAD a Heart Transplant?
No — an LVAD is not a heart transplant. It is a mechanical assist device that supports your heart’s function. Some patients eventually receive a transplant after having an LVAD, while others live with the device as a permanent solution.
What to Expect After Surgery
LVAD surgery is major and requires hospitalization, physical therapy, and education. Most patients stay in the hospital for several weeks and work closely with a multidisciplinary team.
After recovery, patients learn how to monitor their equipment, change dressings, and adjust to a new normal. Support from family, caregivers, and peer networks is crucial.
Learn More and Connect
Want to hear real stories from people living with an LVAD? You’re in the right place. Browse more on LVADTalk.com or watch personal experiences on our YouTube channel.
If you’re considering an LVAD or caring for someone who is, know this: You are not alone. This device saved my life — and it may just save yours too.
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Shawn Connors
Executive Producer/Host - Connors Studios
Meet Shawn Connors, a man who’s faced some tough health challenges. Born with a heart murmur, he had his first heart surgery at just three. But life threw him another curveball when he was 37, diagnosed with DIFIB.
Things got even worse when Shawn’s wife, diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, fell ill at 40. Shawn, determined to take care of her, was also battling his own health issues. It was clear that he needed an LVAD. Six months after the implant, Shawn’s wife sadly passed away, leaving him as the sole caregiver for their two elementary-aged children.
Despite the immense grief, Shawn found a way to channel his emotions into something positive. He started a podcast called LVAD Talk, where he interviews other LVADers, including heart transplant recipients. His videos and podcasts are available on YouTube and LVADTalk.com.
In addition to his podcast, Shawn is also the owner of Connors Studio, where he creates and specializes in portraiture and lifestyle photography.
🚀 To Transplant and Beyond!??!
