HeartWare Controller Logs A Diagnostic Tool and Clinical Management Aid for the HVAD Pump

Abstract

Continuous-flow ventricular assist devices (VADs) are a viable therapy for the treatment of end-stage heart failure, offering support for bridge-to-transplantation and destination therapy. As support duration for VADs continues to rise, patient management and device maintenance will play an increasingly crucial role. The HeartWare Ventricular Assist System has currently been implanted in >4,000 patients worldwide. The HeartWare controller stores approximately 30 days of VAD data including pump rotational speed, power consumption, and estimated VAD flow. Routine assessment of controller log files can serve as a pump performance tool and clinical management aid, assisting the clinician to make accurate and timely diagnoses. Here, we discuss the controller's data collection system as well as present the process for evaluation and reporting of controller log files to clinicians.