Authors' objectives:

This study aims to assess the current evidence on short-term circulatory support with left ventricular assist devices as a bridge to cardiac transplantation or recovery.

Authors' recommendations: 1 Guidance 1.1 Limited evidence on the safety and efficacy of shortterm circulatory support with left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) as a bridge to cardiac transplantation or recovery appears adequate to support the use of this procedure provided that the normal arrangements are in place for audit and clinical governance. 1.2 Clinicians should ensure that patients fully understand the high complication rates associated with this procedure and that the procedure is a temporary measure. In addition, use of the Institute's 'Understanding NICE guidance' is recommended (available from www.nice.org.uk/IPG177publicinfo). 1.3 Publication of further research will be useful, particularly on the use of this procedure in patients with cardiogenic shock following acute myocardial infarction.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.nice.org.uk/page.aspx?o=IP_59

Year Published: 2006

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: England

Organisation Name: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence

Contact Address: Level 1A, City Tower, Piccadilly Plaza, Manchester, M1 4BT

Contact Name: nice@nice.nhs.uk

Contact Email: nice@nice.nhs.uk

Copyright: National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE)