351. Left ventricular assist device-associated infections
- Author
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Francis D. Pagani, Sophia Califano, and Preeti N. Malani
- Subjects
Microbiology (medical) ,medicine.medical_specialty ,Prosthesis-Related Infections ,medicine.medical_treatment ,Improved survival ,Ventricular Function, Left ,Quality of life ,Anti-Infective Agents ,Risk Factors ,Internal medicine ,Epidemiology ,medicine ,Infection control ,Humans ,Intensive care medicine ,Heart transplantation ,Heart Failure ,Ventricular function ,business.industry ,Bacterial Infections ,equipment and supplies ,Infectious Diseases ,medicine.anatomical_structure ,Mycoses ,Ventricle ,Ventricular assist device ,Cardiology ,Heart-Assist Devices ,business - Abstract
The left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is a mechanical pump that supplements or replaces the function of a damaged left ventricle. Although LVAD support is associated with improved survival and quality of life, infectious complications remain a major limitation. The authors examine the epidemiology of LVAD-associated infections and review current diagnostic, treatment, and management strategies. Novel evidence-based approaches to infection prevention remain critical because the number of patients receiving long-term mechanical support continues to burgeon.
- Published
- 2012