Our doctors from Columbia are experts in using VADs to support children with cardiomyopathy or complex congenital heart disease. We are skilled in implanting the most advanced VADs available, such as the Berlin Heart EXCOR, HeartMate 3, Impella System, and SynCardia Total Artificial Heart. NewYork-Presbyterian provides a range of VAD options for children of all ages, such as:
- Bridge to heart transplant: For children who require a heart transplant, a VAD can help the heart pump properly as they wait to come off the transplant list. Approximately two-thirds of our patients undergoing transplant use VAD support while they wait.
- Recovery support: Some pediatric patients may recover their heart function with the assistance of a VAD that provides temporary mechanical support. In these cases, the device can be taken out (explanted).
- Destination therapy: Patients who forgo heart transplant may have a VAD for long-term support. Our goal is to extend life and help facilitate a smooth transition to adult care. At Children’s Hospital of New York, we have special expertise in long-term VADs and VAD use in patients with muscular dystrophy.
