Continuous Flow Left Ventricular Assist Device Improves Functional Capacity and Quality of Life of Advanced Heart Failure Patients

摘要: Objectives This study sought to assess the impact of continuous flow left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) on functional capacity and heart failure-related quality life. Background Newer continuous-flow LVAD are smaller quieter than pulsatile-flow LVADs. Methods Data from advanced failure patients enrolled in HeartMate II (Thoratec Corporation, Pleasanton, California) bridge transplantation (BTT) (n = 281) destination therapy (DT) 374) trials were analyzed. Functional status (New York Heart Association [NYHA] class, 6-min walk distance, patient activity scores), life (Minnesota Living With Failure [MLWHF] Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaires [KCCQ]) collected before after implantation. Results Compared with baseline, demonstrated early sustained improvements Most had NYHA class IV symptoms at baseline. Following implant, 82% 80% 6 months 79% 24 improved I or II. Mean distance DT was 204 m able ambulate which 350 360 months. There also significant baseline both BTT median MLWHF scores (by 40 42 U patients, 52% 55%, months, respectively), KCCQ overall summary 39 41 U, 170% 178%). Conclusions Use a results clinically relevant