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. VADs is an overall term for specific types of these devices, such as left ventricular assist device (LVAD). 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.

Why choose Mayo Clinic for VADs

• 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 and clinical trials to improve ventricular assist devices.

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.

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At Mayo Clinic, we assemble a team of specialists who take the time to listen and thoroughly understand your health issues and concerns. We tailor the care you receive to your personal health care needs. You can trust our specialists to collaborate and offer you the best possible outcomes, safety and service.

Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical institution that reinvests all earnings into improving medical practice, research and education. We're constantly involved in innovation and medical research, finding solutions to improve your care and quality of life. Your doctor or someone on your medical team is likely involved in research related to your condition.

Our patients tell us that the quality of their interactions, our attention to detail and the efficiency of their visits mean health care — and trusted answers — like they've never experienced.

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