Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I be supported by an LVAD?

The patient will have an LVAD for as long as the patient's heart needs it. The duration of support varies with each device. In most cases, the LVAD can be replaced if the device has failed.

Will I be able to take a bath or a shower while implanted with the pump?

Being submerged in water is NOT an option. Showering is allowed with the proper protective equipment. Your nurse coordinator will educate you and your caregiver about proper showering technique during your hospital stay.

Will I have pain after surgery?

Pain can be expected after any major surgery. Pain medications will be managed by the critical care physician and your nurse in order to achieve a tolerable level.

How long will I be in the hospital?

A typical length of stay after LVAD implantation is about three weeks, with approximately two weeks being spent in the Thoracic ICU and one week being spent on the Advanced Cardiac Care Unit (step-down unit). (Please refer to the Patient Experience section).

How will my family and I learn how to live life with the LVAD?

Education starts upon day of admission and continues throughout hospitalization. Each patient is paired with an LVAD nurse coordinator who will become your resource person for the duration of your LVAD experience. Information is provided in written, verbal, and visual formats for your learning needs.

Does the LVAD make noise?

HeartMate XVE-The HeartMate XVE emits a constant, low tone swishing noise, which patients most often become accustomed to.

HeartMate II-The HeartMate II does not make noise because this is a continuous flow LVAD.

Novacor-The Novacor emits a constant, low tone swishing noise, which patients most often become accustomed to.

HeartMate XVE-Each patient is given six pairs of batteries. Patients find that each battery set lasts about four hours. Battery life is dependent upon pump rate. At a faster rate, battery usage is increased. Each patient is also provided with a 24-hour emergency battery.

HeartMate II-Each patient is given six pairs of batteries. Patients find that each battery set lasts about three hours. Each patient is also provided with a 24-hour emergency battery.

Novacor-Each patient is given eight batteries. Most patients find that each battery set last about six hours. Each patient is provided with a 12-hour backup battery source.

The medications you take will depend upon pre-existing medical conditions. You may be on many of the same medications that you were taking before LVAD implantation. LVAD management requires some form of anticoagulation (blood thinner). Your doctor may prescribe new medications, which will be explained to you at that time.

There is no special diet specifically for LVAD patients; however, diet restrictions are dependent upon your other medical conditions. Your doctor will advise you on your diet.

You should be able to resume normal sexual activity with your doctor's permission. For women of childbearing age, becoming pregnant is not recommended while on LVAD support, due to potential complications.

Travel is encouraged after you and your caregiver have become competent in caring for your device. Your LVAD coordinator can help you make necessary preparations for long distance or extended travel.

• Contact sports or any activity with the risk of personal injury
• Water sports or submerging in water in any way
• Skiing/Snowboarding/Rollerblading/Skateboarding

Patients may be allowed to drive after passing a short test that evaluates the patient's heart function and the ability to enact emergency procedures. This test is performed at Intermountain Medical Center under the supervision of the UAHP team.