LVAD Anatomy

The Thoratec HeartMate® XVE is approved as both a bridge-to-transplantation and a destination therapy.

LVADs are designed to take over the function of the heart's left ventricle, which delivers oxygenated blood from the heart to the body. The device, which is implanted in the patient's chest, consists of an electric motor and a driveline. A tube placed in the left ventricle diverts blood from the heart to the pump. The motion of the pump then propels the blood back into the aorta—with enough force to be distributed adequately throughout the body.

The device follows the normal cycle of breathing and heart beats, with the diaphragm moving down and blood refilling the device after each pump. In addition to extending the life of the patient's own heart, the improved blood flow to the body allows patients to breathe easier and experience less fatigue. Since the LVAD system is relatively easy to use, patients can leave the hospital setting with the implanted device and return to some of the activities of normal life.