RVADs

RVADs stand for Right Ventricular Assist Devices, which are mechanical pumps that are implanted in the body to assist the right ventricle, the lower right chamber of the heart, in pumping blood throughout the body. These devices are typically used in patients who have heart failure or are recovering from a heart attack.

A Right Ventricular Assist Device consists of a pump that is connected to a power source, usually a battery or an external power supply. The pump is inserted into the body, usually through a surgical incision, and connectors are attached to the right ventricle to siphon blood from the heart and pump it to the lungs for oxygenation. The blood is then returned to the body.

RVADs can be used in two modes: left ventricular bypass mode, where the pump assists the left ventricle in pumping blood to the body; and right ventricular bypass mode, where the pump assists the right ventricle in pumping blood to the lungs. Some RVADs can also be configured to operate in bridge-to-transplant mode, where they support the patient until a heart transplant becomes available.

Using an RVAD can have various benefits, including improving heart function, increasing blood flow, and enhancing the patient's overall quality of life. However, RVADs also carry some risks, including hemorrhage, infection, and device malfunction.

RVADs are generally considered effective in patients with end-stage heart failure or those who have experienced a severe heart attack. However, more research is needed to determine the long-term benefits and potential complications of using RVADs in patients with other types of heart conditions.