Left Ventricular Assist Devices: Advances, Complications, and Pitfalls

Abstract

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are used for short-term support, as a bridge to transplant, or as destination therapy in patients with end-stage systolic heart failure. Imaging plays a crucial role in assessing the anatomic suitability for implantation and in detecting complications following both implantation and explantation. LVAD-associated complications can affect the pump, inflow cannula, outflow graft, or driveline. Echocardiography is effective for evaluating inflow cannula position and certain parameters, such as inflow and outflow velocities, valvular regurgitation, and ventricular dilatation; however, its ability to visualize the interiors of the inflow and outflow cannulas is limited. MRI is contraindicated for patients with LVADs. Contrast-enhanced chest CT imaging has become the preferred diagnostic modality for evaluating outflow graft complications. This imaging essay describes the CT findings and complications associated with LVADs, particularly the commercially available HeartMate II and HeartMate 3 devices (Abbott Laboratories). The HeartWare device (Medtronic), although recalled by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, will also be mentioned. Keywords: Cardiac Assist Devices, CT Imaging Supplemental material is available for this article. © RSNA, 2025.

Keywords: CT Imaging; Cardiac Assist Devices.