Successful trans-Atlantic air ambulance transfer of a patient supported by a bi-ventricular assist device.

The ventricular assist device (VAD) is a hemodynamic support device that augments cardiac output for patients with severe ventricular dysfunction. With improved reliability and technological advances, the use of VADs to support patients is increasing. Many VAD-dependent patients ultimately require heart transplants that are only available in specialized centers, necessitating an interhospital transfer.