A left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is a pump used for patients who have reached end-stage heart failure. Surgeons surgically implant the LVAD, a battery-operated, mechanical pump, which then helps the left ventricle (main pumping chamber of the heart) pump blood to the rest of the body. LVADs can be used as bridge-to-transplant therapy (for patients waiting for a donor’s heart) and destination therapy (patients who are not eligible for heart transplants).
Unlike a total artificial heart, the LVAD doesn’t replace the heart. It just helps it do its job. An LVAD restores blood flow to a person whose heart has been weakened by heart disease. This helps relieve some symptoms, such as being constantly tired or short of breath.
The cost of an LVAD transplant in India is around USD 11,945 – USD 13,273. On average patients remain in the hospital for 14 – 21 days after LVAD implantation. During this time, the team will help you understand more about the device (How the device works, what alarms mean, etc.)