Abstract
Purpose: Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have proven beneficial for the treatment of advanced heart failure, however infection remains a common cause of morbidity and mortality. Slow initial driveline exit site (DLES) healing increases the risk of acquiring an infection. In this study, the transcutaneous driveline material and size were examined to determine the effect on DLES healing. Methods and Materials: The Utah Artificial Heart Program database was queried for patients implanted with a HeartMate II (HMII) or a HeartWare (HW) LVAD who had DLES assessments at 1, 2, and 3 months postimplant. To monitor healing, a score ranging from 1 to 4 was developed (1, fully incorporated with no drainage or erythema (D/E); 2, initial tear in skin with slight D/E; 3, increased D/E; 4, open wound with copious D/E). These data were then used to compare the effects of material and size on DLES healing using a Student’s t-test.
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