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MedStar Washington Hospital Center Makes History with HeartMate 3 LVAD Implants

MedStar Washington Hospital Center has reached an extraordinary milestone in cardiac care by successfully completing over 500 HeartMate 3 Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) implantations. This state-of-the-art mechanical heart pump has revolutionized the treatment of advanced heart failure, providing critical support for patients whose hearts can no longer function effectively. By achieving this significant benchmark, MedStar Washington joins an elite group of only four programs across the United States that have accomplished this landmark.

To celebrate this achievement, the hospital hosted a gathering featuring patients whose lives have been transformed thanks to the HeartMate 3 technology. Individuals like Dion Lucas, Cartrell Carter, and Jason York have all faced the life-threatening challenges associated with end-stage heart failure but now find renewed hope and strength due to the LVAD.

Dr. Keki Balsara, the surgical director of Heart Transplantation and Mechanical Circulatory Support at MedStar Washington, emphasized the revolutionary role LVADs play in treating heart failure patients. “This milestone reflects our commitment to providing innovative and compassionate care to those in dire need,” he stated. The HeartMate 3 allows hundreds of patients to regain their vitality, enjoy more quality time with family, and in many cases, prepare for heart transplantation.

LVADs serve a critical function for patients whose hearts are unable to effectively pump blood and who do not respond well to medications. These mechanical devices act as either a bridge to transplantation or as durable long-term solutions, often making a significant difference between life and death.

MedStar Washington Hospital Center has consistently been at the forefront of LVAD advancements. For instance, just a couple of years ago, it celebrated its 300th implant, marking a significant part of its focused contributions to national LVAD research, including the pivotal MOMENTUM 3 clinical trial. This study played an integral role in establishing the HeartMate 3 as the most utilized LVAD across the country today.

Currently, MedStar Washington performs upwards of 60 HeartMate 3 LVAD implants annually, contributing to a remarkable tally of over 1,000 ventricular assist devices implanted to date. The hospital's position as one of the highest-volume centers provides its patients with improved survival rates and swift recoveries, owing to the experienced care teams adept at tackling even the most complex challenges.

“Being a leading center allows our patients to experience superior outcomes due to our extensive expertise in managing such intricate procedures,” added Dr. Balsara. “Every patient receives the best possible chance for healing and returning to a fulfilling lifestyle.”

The legacy of MedStar Washington in the field of advanced heart failure care dates back to 1988 when it was one of the pioneering hospitals to introduce groundbreaking mechanical circulatory support devices. This long-standing commitment to heart failure treatment underscores its reputation as a leader in the medical field.

As the medical community moves forward, the remarkable achievements of MedStar Washington Hospital Center highlight the ongoing advancements in cardiac care and the hope that cutting-edge technologies like the HeartMate 3 continue to bring to patients battling severe heart conditions.