Pediatric ventricular assist devices: what are the key considerations and requirements?

Introduction: The development of ventricular assist devices (VADs) have enabled myocardial recovery and improved patient survival until heart transplantation. However, device options remain limited for children and lag in development. Areas covered: This review focuses on the evolution of pediatric VADs in becoming to be an accepted treatment option in advanced heart failure, discusses the classification of VADs available for children, i.e. types of pumps and duration of support, and defines implantation indications and explantation criteria, describes attendant complications and long-term outcome of VAD support. Furthermore, we emphasize the key considerations and requirements in the application of these devices in infants, children and adolescents. Expert opinion: Increasing use of VADs has facilitated a leading edge in management of advanced heart failure either as a bridge to transplantation or as a bridge to myocardial recovery. In newborns and small children, the EXCOR Pediatric VAD remains the only reliable option. In some patients ventricular unloading may lead to complete myocardial recovery. There is a strong need for pumps that are fully implantable, suitable for single ventricle physiology, such as the right ventricle.