Patient satisfaction with the external equipment of implantable left ventricular assist devices

Abstract

Patient satisfaction with left ventricular assist device (LVAD) external equipment has not yet been reported. We aimed to evaluate the quality of two different systems based on patients' perspective and its interrelationship with quality of life. Differential assessment of the HeartMate II axial flow pump (n = 17; Thoratec, Pleasanton, CA, USA) and the HVAD centrifugal pump (n = 10; HeartWare, Inc., Miramar, FL, USA) was obtained from 27 outpatients by a questionnaire 2 months to 2.9 years after device implantation. In addition, a health-related quality of life questionnaire (Short Form-36 [SF-36]) was completed. Overall patients' satisfaction was high. Severe limitations were attributed to the loudness of the power base unit in HeartMate II patients (P = 0.00), and HVAD patients were dissatisfied by the length of the driveline (P = 0.02). Between HVAD and HeartMate II patients, no significant differences in the quality of life (assessed by SF-36) were reported. While the overall satisfaction of outpatients on LVAD support was high, differences between the systems were found. Patients' perspectives may have an important impact on future modification of external components. Ultimately, this may also contribute to an improvement in the quality of life of chronic LVAD patients.