Extended support with permanent systems: percutaneous versus totally implantable.

Use of circulatory support devices in patients awaiting heart transplantation has provided information about the long-term use of these devices. The Novacor left ventricular assist system has proved reliable for long-term support. The main problems with its use are infection and thromboembolism, but neither seems to prohibit long-term use. Problems with compliance chambers are not as great as previously thought. These results suggest that implantation of a permanent, totally implantable left ventricular assist device in lieu of transplantation is feasible.