Myocardial fibrosis and pro-fibrotic markers in end-stage heart failure patients during continuous-flow left ventricular assist device support

Abstract

cf-LVAD support is associated with lengthening of cardiomyocytes, without alterations in diameter size. Remarkably, myocardial fibrosis increased as well as circulating pro-fibrotic markers. Whether the morphological changes are a direct effect of reduced pulsatility during cf-LVAD support or due to HF progression requires further investigation.