Driveline Features as Risk Factor for Infection in Left Ventricular Assist Devices: Meta-Analysis and Experimental Tests.

Risk factors for driveline infection (DLI) in patients with left ventricular assist devices are multifactorial. The aim of this study was to analyze the correlation between mechanical driveline features and DLI occurrence. A meta-analysis was conducted that included studies reporting DLI rates at 6 months after implantation of any of three contemporary devices (HVAD with Pellethane or Carbothane driveline, HeartMate II, and HeartMate 3).