Multi-Disciplinary Team Management Is Cost Effective in Patients During the Index Hospitalization of Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation

s S165 Purpose: Many trials demonstrate that implantable LVAD therapy improves survival and quality of life in patients with advanced heart failure. With longer durations of mechanical circulatory support, patients are placing increased emphasis on activities that may impact quality of life. We sought to understand the lifestyle modifications and/or restrictions that the implanting center imposes on patients with durable LVADs Methods: An online survey of lifestyle modifications and restrictions imposed on patients with implantable LVADs was created and distributed to the MCS Collaborative listserv, which includes members from hospitals implanting durable LVADs. Results were compiled and tabulated using the University of Washington Catalyst Web Tools. Results: A total of 26 responses were received, representing 25 US-based VAD programs. All programs reported implanting Thoratec HeartMate II LVADs and 62% implanted the HeartWare HVAD. The average number of annual implants was 30 (Range 1-70, SEM 3.4), and the total number of implants since program inception averaged 222 (Range 1-800, SEM 43.5). 88% of programs require patients to have a caregiver available after implantation, but only 77% required 24/7 caregiver availability. Regarding travel, 92% of programs allowed patients to drive with an LVAD, 100% allowed airline travel, 85% allowed cruise ship travel, while only 27% permit international travel. 100% of programs allow patients to shower, while only 8% allow sauna use, and 66% permit engaging in watersports. Individual center volume did not correlate with liberalized restrictions. Conclusion: As increasing numbers of patients are supported with implantable LVADs, MCS programs are largely allowing activities that were previously prohibited, such as driving, travel, and watersports. Carefully weighing the risks of resuming pre-LVAD activities that usually correlate with improved quality of life while living with an LVAD may allow additional patients to resume normal life activities.