Ventricular Assist Devices

Overview

Ventricular assist devices (VADs) are mechanical devices that help pump blood from the lower chambers of your heart (ventricles) to your body. You may need to have a VAD implanted if you have a weakened heart or heart failure. Ventricular assist devices may be used as a short-term or long-term treatment option, depending on your heart condition. Read more about ventricular assist devices.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Experience. Mayo Clinic doctors trained in heart disease (cardiologists) and heart surgeons (cardiac surgeons) have extensive experience treating people who may need VADs. Each Mayo Clinic location offers heart failure clinics staffed by doctors trained in treating people who have congestive heart failure. Staff in the Advanced Heart Failure Clinic at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota has experience surgically treating advanced heart failure.
• Teamwork. At Mayo Clinic, an integrated team of doctors trained in heart conditions (cardiologists) and doctors trained in heart surgery (cardiac surgeons) provide the most appropriate treatment for your condition. Doctors may work with lung specialists (pulmonologists), nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists and lifestyle coaches to provide your care.
• Research. Mayo Clinic researchers conduct ongoing studies to improve ventricular assist devices, as well as clinical trials.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for heart and heart surgery by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic also ranks among the Best Children's Hospitals for heart and heart surgery.

Read more about left ventricular assist devices at MayoClinic.com.

Related book: Mayo Clinic Healthy Heart for Life! book provides an easy-to-follow plan to prevent and conquer heart disease.