What is the normal flow rate on an LVAD?

It typically ranges from 4 to 6 L/minute. Pump flow is influenced by mean arte- rial pressure (MAP); a higher MAP increases pump flow, and a lower MAP de- creases it. usual range is 8,600 to 9,800 rpm. by pump speed and the patient’s native heart function.

What do numbers on LVAD mean?

Higher values represent more ventricular filling and contractility (the LVAD is thus providing less support to the left ventricle). Lower values indicate lower filling pressures and lower contractility (the LVAD is providing greater support and unloading the left ventricle).

What is Pi for LVAD?

• The Pulsatility Index (PI) is a measurement of the flow pulse through the pump. (coming from the heart) • During LV filling, increase in pressure causes an increase in pump flow (higher PI. indicates better LV function)

How do you measure heart rate with LVAD?

Since LVAD patients do not typically have palpable peripheral pulses and blood pressures that can be measured by automated cuffs, first use US to get your patient’s MAP. Attach a manual BP cuff to your patient’s arm, inflate > 120 mm Hg, then slowly deflate it while having the Doppler US probe over the brachial artery.

Why is my pi so high?

pulse index can be related to how hydrated you are, a high PI would mean you have fluid on you and may need diuretics.

Can you feel a pulse on an LVAD patient?

An impeller within the pump spins thousands of times a minute, resulting in continuous blood flow, which means LVAD patients don’t have a pulse or measurable blood pressure.

What if your PI is high?

What does the PI mean on the HeartMate 3?

Pulsatility Index
• The HeartMate 3 LVAD observed clinical Pulsatility Index (PI) range: 1–10. • PI values should be routinely monitored and should not vary significantly during resting conditions. • Under otherwise stable conditions, a significant drop in value may indicate a decrease in circulating blood volume.

Does LVAD control heart rate?

LVAD patients had lower systolic blood pressure, lower pulse pressure, reduced heart rate variability in the time and in the frequency domain, and reduced baroreflex-mediated heart rate control compared with matched control subjects (Table 2).