Magnitude and time course of changes induced by continuous-flow left ventricular assist device unloading in chronic heart failure: insights into cardiac recovery.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

This study sought to prospectively investigate the longitudinal effects of continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (LVAD) unloading on myocardial structure and systolic and diastolic function.

Background

The magnitude, timeline, and sustainability of changes induced by continuous-flow LVAD on the structure and function of the failing human heart are unknown.

Methods

Eighty consecutive patients with clinical characteristics consistent with chronic heart failure requiring implantation of a continuous-flow LVAD were prospectively enrolled. Serial echocardiograms (at 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 9, and 12 months) and right heart catheterizations were performed after LVAD implant. Cardiac recovery was assessed on the basis of improvement in systolic and diastolic funct

SUBMITTER: Drakos SG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3819804 | biostudies-literature | 2013 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature