Mechanical heart pump implanted in patient with end-stage heart failure

The Madras Medical Mission has implanted the Evaheart LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device) — a mechanical pump that helps a weakened heart circulate blood — in a 42-year-old man facing end-stage heart failure.

The recipient presented with severe chest pain and breathlessness and was diagnosed with extensive cardiac muscle damage following the a massive heart attack.

Despite intensive care, including pharmacological treatment and intra-aortic balloon pump support, his condition deteriorated to end-stage heart failure. He was deemed unsuitable for conventional interventions such as bypass surgery or angioplasty.

In the absence of viable options, the clinical team opted for advanced mechanical circulatory support

Doctors said the device’s continuous centrifugal flow mechanism reduces blood trauma and is associated with lower risks of clotting, bleeding, and infection. Improved efficiency at lower pump speeds is also expected to enhance patient outcomes.

Following the surgery, the patient’s recovery has been steady, with a gradual stabilisation of cardiac function and withdrawal from ventilatory support.

Clinicians note that LVADs can serve as a bridge to heart transplantation or as long-term therapy for patients ineligible for transplant.