VADs and LVADs (Ventricular Assist Devices)
VADs (ventricular assist devices) are mechanical devices that help your heart pump blood to the rest of your body when other methods don't relieve heart failure symptoms. LVADs, the most common type of VAD, are used to support the left side of the heart, but RVADs may be used to support the right side of the heart as well. The University of Michigan Frankel Cardiovascular Center is home to one of the largest VAD programs in the country, and is one of only a few institutions worldwide that has access to many investigational and FDA-approved mechanical circulatory support devices.