Effects of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) on profound heart failure (PHF)

-evaluation by left ventriculography (LVG) as well as by hemodynamic improvements

Abstract

Four chronic experiments of LVAD were performed in goats with PHF. PHF was induced by interception of blood supply to the 70-80% of LV free wall. All of them recovered and LVAD was removed. After LVAD was removed, hemodynamic condition was maintained within a permissible level without tachycardia, and LVG was performed in 2 goats. It showed an increase in LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) and a decrease in ejection fraction. Akinesis was observed at LV apex. In conclusion, hemodynamic condition might have been reasonably maintained partially by the increased LVEDV, tachycardia, and also by prevention of dyskinesis by LVAD pumping.