Which device is surgically implanted and not permanent but can be long term?

Which device is surgically implanted and not permanent but can be long term?

• A. Intra-aortic balloon pump
• B. Impella
• C. Left ventricular assist device
• D. External pump

Answer: (C)

The left ventricular assist device is surgically implanted and designed for long-term mechanical support. It is placed inside the chest and connected to the aorta, providing ongoing circulatory support as a bridge to transplant or as destination therapy for those who aren’t transplant candidates. In contrast, the intra-aortic balloon pump and the Impella are catheter-based, temporary devices used for short-term support, and an external pump is not implanted at all. Therefore, the LVAD best fits the description of being surgically implanted and capable of long-term use.

The left ventricular assist device is surgically implanted and designed for long-term mechanical support. It is placed inside the chest and connected to the aorta, providing ongoing circulatory support as a bridge to transplant or as destination therapy for those who aren’t transplant candidates. In contrast, the intra-aortic balloon pump and the Impella are catheter-based, temporary devices used for short-term support, and an external pump is not implanted at all. Therefore, the LVAD best fits the description of being surgically implanted and capable of long-term use.