What to Expect while on Support



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What to Expect while on Support

Patients on circulatory support are very ill. In addition to a great deal of rest, patients may also require the assistance of other medical devices that will aid them in breathing, or supply them with medications and vital nutrients. Patients will remain closely monitored by hospital staff during the support period.

Length of Support
The length of time that a patient will be on a circulatory support differs with each individual. The systems are designed for temporary support. The support duration for the BVS Blood Pump has averaged 5 days. The AB5000 Ventricle has provided support for longer periods of time. Sometimes the need for mechanical circulatory support may be permanent. Should this occur, your physician will discuss these options with you.

Outcome
While on circulatory support, the patient will be tested periodically to determine the status of the heart's recovery. If it is evident that the heart has regained its strength and is ready to begin pumping again, the patient will be weaned from support and the device surgically removed.

There are many cases where the patient's heart failure is so severe that, even with the assistance of these systems, recovery does not occur.




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