Remote hemodynamic monitoring for ambulatory left ventricular assist device patients.

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have been shown to markedly improve survival and quality of life in patients with end-stage heart failure. However, despite ongoing improvements in survival and quality of life, significant challenges still exist in the management of these patients, including a high rate of recurrent heart failure and rehospitalizations. Similar challenges exist in the non-LVAD heart failure population as well, and recent efforts to utilize remote hemodynamic monitoring techniques to improve outcomes have shown promise. No data currently exist demonstrating extension of this benefit into the LVAD population, although a theoretical benefit can be extrapolated. Herein we review current remote hemodynamic methods and potential applications towards LVAD patients.