Focused review on transthoracic echocardiographic assessment of patients with continuous axial left ventricular assist devices

Cardiol Res Pract. 2011 Feb 8:2011:187434. doi: 10.4061/2011/187434.

Abstract

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are systems for mechanical support for patients with end-stage heart failure. Preoperative, postoperative and comprehensive followup with transthoracic echocardiography has a major role in LVAD patient management. In this paper, we will present briefly the hemodynamics of axial-flow LVAD, the rationale, and available data for a complete and organized echocardiographic assessment in these patients including preoperative assessment, postoperative and long-term evaluation.