%0 Journal Article %A Joseph A. R. Englert III %A Jennifer A. Davis %A Selim R. Krim %T Mechanical Circulatory Support for the Failing Heart: Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices %D 2016 %J Ochsner Journal %P 263-269 %V 16 %N 3 %X Background: Heart transplantation remains the definitive therapy for patients with advanced heart failure; however, owing to limited donor organ availability and long wait times, continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have become standard therapy.Methods: This review summarizes the history, progression, function, and basic management of LVADs. Additionally, we provide some clinical pearls and important caveats for managing this unique patient population.Results: Currently, the most common LVADs being implanted in the United States are second- and third-generation devices, the HeartMate II (Thoratec Corp., St. Jude Medical) and the HeartWare HVAD (HeartWare International, Inc.). A newer third-generation pump, the HeartMate III (Thoratec Corp., St. Jude Medical), is designed to create an artificial pulse and is currently under investigation in the United States.Conclusion: LVAD use is promising, will continue to grow, and has become standard therapy for advanced heart failure as a bridge to recovery, as destination therapy, and as a bridge to transplantation. %U https://www.ochsnerjournal.org/content/ochjnl/16/3/263.full.pdf