Types of LVAD

There are two main types of LVADs based on the purpose and usage:

1. Bridge to Transplant (BTT)

• Used in patients who are waiting for a heart transplant.
• Helps maintain heart function and improve quality of life until a suitable donor heart becomes available.

2. Destination Therapy (DT)

• For patients who cannot undergo a heart transplant due to age, other medical conditions, or donor unavailability.
• The LVAD becomes a permanent solution to support heart function and prolong life.

Symptoms Indicating the Need for an LVAD

Patients with end-stage heart failure may be considered for an LVAD when medications and other treatments are no longer effective.

Common symptoms include:

• Severe fatigue and inability to do daily activities
• Shortness of breath, even at rest
• Swelling in legs and abdomen due to fluid buildup
• Frequent hospitalizations for heart failure
• Low blood pressure and poor kidney function
• Repeated episodes of cardiac arrest or collapse

A cardiologist evaluates the severity of symptoms and heart function (usually ejection fraction < 25%) to determine LVAD eligibility.

Who Needs an LVAD in India?

Patients who may be advised to get an LVAD in India usually fall into these categories:

1. Awaiting Heart Transplant:
   • Patients with deteriorating heart function but on the transplant list.
2. Not Eligible for Transplant:
   • Patients with comorbidities or advanced age not suited for heart transplant.
   • They receive the LVAD as long-term treatment.
3. Temporary Support (Bridge to Recovery):
   • In some cases, LVAD may be used temporarily if the heart function is expected to improve, e.g., after myocarditis or viral heart infection.

LVAD Cost in India

The cost of an LVAD procedure in India can vary depending on the hospital, city, and brand of device used.

Average Cost Breakdown:

• LVAD Device Cost: ₹35 to ₹50 lakhs
• Hospital Charges (Surgery, ICU, Stay): ₹8 to ₹12 lakhs
• Total Estimated Cost: ₹45 to ₹60 lakhs

Note: Some high-end hospitals may charge more, especially in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, or Chennai. Government schemes and health insurance may cover part of the cost.

Factors Affecting LVAD Cost:

• Type of LVAD device used (e.g., HeartMate, HeartWare)
• Duration of ICU and hospital stay
• Experience of the cardiac team
• Post-operative care and medications
• Presence of complications or additional surgeries

LVAD Cost in India (INR & USD)

The total cost of Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) surgery in India can vary widely based on the hospital, city, device brand, and the patient’s condition. However, it is still significantly more affordable than in many Western countries.

Average Cost Breakdown:

Note: These are approximate costs and can vary. Premier hospitals in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, or Bangalore may be on the higher end.

Why Choose Mendsure for LVAD Surgery in India?

Mendsure is a trusted healthcare facilitator offering end-to-end support for complex surgeries like LVAD across India’s top hospitals. Here’s why patients prefer Mendsure:

Key Advantages of Choosing Mendsure:

1. Tie-ups with Top Cardiac Hospitals:
   • Access to NABH & JCI-accredited hospitals in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad.
2. Expert Cardiac Surgeons:
   • Mendsure partners only with highly experienced surgeons with a proven record in LVAD implantation and heart transplants.
3. Personalized Patient Care:
   • Dedicated case managers guide patients through medical, financial, and logistical processes.
4. Second Opinion Service:
   • Get a free expert second opinion to ensure the right diagnosis and treatment plan.
5. Cost Transparency & Affordable Packages:
   • Clear cost breakdowns with no hidden charges. Assistance in insurance claims and loan support if needed.
6. Pre- and Post-Operative Support:
   • Full guidance on pre-surgery tests, travel planning, post-operative follow-ups, and cardiac rehab.

LVAD Process with Mendsure: Step-by-Step

1. Initial Consultation

• Mendsure arranges a detailed consultation with a heart failure specialist or cardiac surgeon.
• Review of medical history, ECHO, ECG, MRI, and blood tests.

2. Eligibility Assessment

• Evaluation of heart function (ejection fraction <25–30%), comorbid conditions, and transplant status.
• Decision on Bridge-to-Transplant or Destination Therapy.

3. Pre-operative Planning

• Cardiac workup, infection screening, financial counseling, and admission scheduling.

4. LVAD Surgery

• Surgical implantation of the device (takes 4–6 hours).
• Performed under general anesthesia at a top-tier cardiac center.

5. Post-operative ICU Care

• ICU stay for 5–10 days, followed by ward recovery.
• Continuous monitoring and wound care.

6. Rehabilitation and Follow-Up

• Cardiac rehab, medication guidance, and device care training.
• Mendsure ensures long-term follow-up coordination.

Eligibility Criteria for LVAD

You may be a candidate for an LVAD if:

Medical Requirements:

• Severe end-stage heart failure (NYHA Class III or IV).
• Ejection fraction < 25–30%
• Not responding to maximum medical therapy.
• Either awaiting a heart transplant or not eligible for one.

Other Considerations:

• Good kidney and liver function.
• No active infections or uncontrolled bleeding issues.
• Adequate mental health and family support for device management.

Final eligibility is determined by a multidisciplinary team of cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and critical care specialists.

Risks and Complications of LVAD

Though life-saving, LVAD is a major surgery and comes with potential risks, including:

Common Risks:

• Infection (especially around the driveline)
• Bleeding (during or after surgery)
• Blood clots → stroke or device malfunction
• Right heart failure
• Device-related issues (pump failure, battery problems)
• Psychological impact and lifestyle changes

Mendsure minimizes these risks by choosing experienced surgical teams and top-tier ICU care protocols.

Success Rate of LVAD Surgery in India

High Success with Proper Care:

• Success Rate: 80–90% in suitable candidates.
• Significant improvement in quality of life, energy levels, and lifespan.
• Many patients with LVAD live for 5–10 years or more, especially when used as bridge-to-transplant.

Benefits After LVAD:

• Reduction in hospital admissions.
• Ability to perform daily activities.
• Improved heart function and oxygen delivery.