Postoperative Management Strategies in Mechanical Circulatory Support Patients

The advent of continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices (cfLVADs) has extended and improved quality of life on mechanical circulatory support (MCS) and has allowed long-term, successful MCS therapy in the community setting. In response to limited clinical and non-clinical resources for left ventricular assist device (LVAD) patients in the community, and in an effort to provide effective, evidence-based management of expected LVAD-related complications, MCS specialists provide 24/7/365 clinical and emotional support to LVAD patients and caregivers and to non-LVAD medical personnel. This chapter identifies the most common postoperative challenges faced by LVAD patients and clinicians and provides an evidence-based approach to management.