Incidence and predictors of cognitive decline in patients with left ventricular assist devices.

ABSTRACT:

Background

After left ventricular assist device (LVAD) placement for advanced heart failure, increased cerebral perfusion should result in improved cognitive function. However, stroke (a well-known LVAD complication) and subclinical cerebral ischemia may result in transient or permanent cognitive decline. We sought to describe the incidence and predictors of cognitive decline after LVAD using a valid, sensitive assessment tool.

Methods and results

Among 4419 patients in the Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support who underwent LVAD implantation between May 2012 and December 2013, cognitive function was assessed in 1173 patients with the Trail Making B Test before LVAD and at 3, 6, and 12 months. The test detects several forms of cognitive impairmen

SUBMITTER: Fendler TJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4418227 | biostudies-literature | 2015 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature