Nonthrombogenic, adhesive cellular lining for left ventricular assist devices.

Background: The textured, blood-contacting surfaces of the Thermocardiosystems HeartMate left ventricular assist device (LVAD) promote the passivation of the biomaterial caused by the accumulation of an integral coagulum. Commonly, acute, postimplantation thrombocytopenia causes significant bleeding, requiring surgery or blood transfusions. Chronic complications include thromboembolic microevents that can affect central nervous system function.