Altered exercise pulmonary function after left ventricular assist device implantation

The use of LVADs as a bridge to heart transplantation is increasing steadily as more surgical centers add this effective strategy for end-stage heart failure patients. Fundamental exercise physiology in the presence of LVADs has been described previously, and data is available that supports the safety and efficacy of exercise in this population. Variants to the expected exercise response that may be secondary to LVAD implantation, such as the pulmonary restrictive pattern that developed in the patient described in this case study, may occur. Clinicians should consider assessment and monitoring of pulmonary function in this patient population, especially in patients with exercise-induced dyspnea and perhaps patients with pre-existing pulmonary limitation.