Left ventricular assist device therapy for advanced heart failure: A single-center retrospective study

Abstract

Background

In China, Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs) are increasingly adopted to improve the quality of life for patients with end-stage heart failure. This study aims to systematically present the clinical data and outcomes of LVAD implantations performed at Anhui Chest Hospital.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 28 consecutive patients who underwent LVAD implantation from October 2024 to July 2025. Preoperative baselines were compared with 3-months postoperative outcomes, including Left Ventricular End-Diastolic Diameter (LVEDD), Ejection Fraction (LVEF), NYHA functional class, and 6-Minute Walk Distance (6MWD). Adverse events were recorded.

Results

All 28 patients (20 males; mean age 59.7 ± 12.3 years) successfully underwent the procedure. The postoperative ICU stay was 10 ± 5.9 days. Complications within 90 days included hemorrhagic stroke (7%), malignant arrhythmia (3.5%), renal failure (3.5%), poor wound healing (3.5%), and one death (3.5%). No device malfunctions occurred. At 3 months, LVEDD significantly decreased (61.3 ± 5.8 vs 75.2 ± 9.4 mm), while LVEF (34.8 ± 9.8% vs 22.7 ± 5.6%) and 6MWD (356.1 ± 159.4 m vs 85 ± 49.6 m) significantly increased (all p < 0.01). All surviving patients improved to NYHA class I–II.

Conclusion

Preliminary results indicate that the application of Chinese LVADs demonstrates favorable clinical efficacy and acceptable safety profiles, serving as effective therapeutic strategies for advanced heart failure.