PVAD
A percutaneous ventricular assist device, or PVAD, is a small mechanical pump that supports the heart. A PVAD is only meant for short-term support – from a few hours to 15 days. It is usually reserved for those who have developed heart failure due to surgery or a heart attack, and provides the heart with time to strengthen. This devise is worn outside the body and it connected to the heart through a vein located in the thigh. The PVAD can be inserted in the cardiac cath lab.
Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)
A left ventricular assist device (LVAD) works to ease the workload experienced by the heart. This is also a mechanical pump. An LVAD assumes the function of the left ventricle, the heart’s most crucial pumping chamber. This provides the heart opportunity to rest while providing the body with normal blood flow. This device requires open heart surgery.
Levitronix Centrimag
The Levitronix CentriMag supports the heart or assumes the work of the heart during heart surgeries. A blood pump, it works outside the body and attaches to the heart during surgery. It is currently being evaluated as support for those whose hearts go into shock and are waiting for a transplant or a decision on treatment.
