Neurohormonal Regulation and Improvement in Blood Glucose Control: Reduction of Insulin Requirement in Patients with a Nonpulsatile Ventricular Assist Device

Abstract

Implantation of nonpulsatile LVADs has become a viable option for the treatment of end-stage heart failure, helping to improve patient quality of life by decreasing clinical symptoms associated with poor end-organ perfusion. Frequently, diabetes is a comorbid condition that exists among heart failure patients and with the reduction of the systemic inflammatory and stress response produced by the support of a nonpulsatile LVAD, many patients may benefit from a reduction in their blood glucose levels, as well as insulin requirements.