q. Is the DeBakey VAD® available for implant in any heart hospital?
a. In the United States, the DeBakey VAD® is currently an investigational device, being clinically tested at several of the country’s leading heart research centers. Please consult with your cardiologist or heart care specialist for referral to those centers participating in the clinical trials program. In Europe, the DeBakey VAD® is approved for use as both a bridge–to–transplant or as destination therapy.
q. Can patients who receive a ventricular assist device leave the hospital after implantation?
a. Yes, many patients are allowed to leave the hospital after receiving a VAD. This will occur if their physician has determined that the patient has sufficiently recovered from their implant surgery and has learned to care for their device independently.
q. How does an implantable Ventricular Assist Device work with my heart?
a. Because your heart has been weakened by Congestive Heart Failure, the left side is not strong enough to sufficiently pump blood to meet the demands of your body. The VAD assists or completely takes over the function of pumping the blood from the left side of the heart.
q. What kind of rehabilitation program will I undergo?
a. Following surgery, your clinical needs will be addressed by physicians and nurses who are specialized in treating heart failure patients. Additionally, you may be seen by occupational and physical therapists to help you become strong enough to care for yourself and your device. Following discharge from the hospital, you will most likely participate in a cardiac rehabilitation program.
q. How will I learn about taking care of my device?
a. The VAD team at the hospital will teach you and a caregiver about the function and care of your system. You will be trained on daily operation, maintenance and emergency procedures related to your VAD.
q. What will I be able to do?
a. Because of the increased blood flow, you should be able to perform most of the activities you did prior to surgery with even greater strength. Many patients return to participate in the normal everyday activities including family events, returning to work, attending social and sporting events and traveling. Being able to participate in these kinds of activities will depend on your overall state of health and speed of recovery.
