Elderly patients with HF gain quality of life (QOL) benefits with left ventricular assist devices (LVAD), according to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. Researchers evaluated survival, functional outcomes, and QOL after LVAD among adult patients receiving durable LVADs. Mortality rates of 34% for patients younger than 65, 54% for patients aged 65-75, and 66% for patients older than 75 were observed. Newer-generation devices were associated with reduced late mortality (HR, 0.35). Stroke, device malfunction or thrombosis, and rehospitalizations decreased with increasing age. In all ages, median 6-minute walk distance increased from 0 feet to 1,065 feet, and QOL improved after LVAD.
