Ventricular Assist Device Program

Life-Changing Care for Advanced Heart Failure

If you have advanced heart failure, you may be a candidate for a ventricular assist device (VAD). A VAD is a heart pump that helps restore blood flow to the body. A VAD is for people whose weakened heart muscle can no longer pump blood effectively. This technology can extend and improve your life. 

UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester is home to the only ventricular assist device program in Central Massachusetts. Our program was established so patients could be treated locally and not have to travel to Boston for their advanced heart failure care. We are nationally recognized for the quality of our care and our VAD outcomes. A multispecialty team of cardiologists, heart surgeons, nurse practitioners, social workers and other specialists work together to support patients and families through the life of their VAD. 
 

What Is a Ventricular Assist Device? 

A VAD is a small device we surgically implant in your heart. It helps your heart pump blood through your body. A left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is the most common type of VAD since most people with heart failure have a weakened left ventricle (the heart’s main pumping mechanism). 

A VAD has several parts. The mechanical pump is inserted into the tip of your heart. The blood is pumped through a flexible tube to your main artery called the aorta (blood vessel that delivers blood to the rest of your body). A cable (driveline) runs from the pump and exits your body through a small opening in your abdomen. The cable attaches to a control unit and power source that you wear outside your body. 

Why Might I Need a Ventricular Assist Device? 

VADs can be beneficial in several situations:

• Bridge to transplant: The device temporarily supports people who are waiting for a heart transplant. 
• Bridge to recovery: The device provides temporary support for people whose hearts need time to recover from heart attacks or other cardiac conditions. 
• Destination therapy: The device provides permanent support and improves quality of life for people with end-stage heart failure who aren’t candidates for heart transplantation.

What to Expect During LVAD Surgery

A heart surgeon performs LVAD surgery in an operating room. Your care team includes a cardiac surgery provider with advanced training, a cardiac nurse, a perfusionist (monitors heart/lung machine) and a cardiac anesthesiologist.

During LVAD surgery, your surgeon: 

• Makes a cut in your chest and opens your breastbone 
• Connect you to a heart-lung bypass machine (machine that takes over your heart and lung function during surgery)
• Makes a small opening in your abdomen and inserts the cable 
• Connects the pump to your left ventricle and the outflow tube to your aorta
• Turns the pump on and removes you from the bypass machine
• Ensures the device is pumping blood at the right speed
• Closes the incisions in your breastbone and chest