Choosing the appropriate left ventricular assist device for your patient.

The increasing incidence of advanced heart failure and severe donor organ shortage for cardiac transplant has led to the development of implantable left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) for long-term mechanical circulatory support. There has been tremendous improvement in the device technology of LVADs, and there are a number of devices in use throughout the world. This article reviews the evidence behind each device and their unique features that can help when choosing a durable LVAD for an individual patient.