Patient selection for left ventricular assist devices

Abstract

Heart transplantation (HTx) improves symptoms and prolongs life in advanced heart failure (HF), but organ supply is limited. In recent years, mechanical circulatory support and specifically implantable left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have undergone technical improvements, and outcomes have improved dramatically. Left ventricular assist devices are now viable options for patients with severe HF as bridge to transplantation, destination therapy, or as bridge to recovery. Many believe that LVADs may soon provide outcomes similar to, or better than, HTx, launching a new era of end-stage HF management. The key to improving outcomes is patient selection, but the field is changing rapidly and guidelines and consensus are limited. This review summarizes recent reports of predictors of poor outcomes and provides an overview of selection for LVAD therapy.