Mechanical Circulatory Support

Mechanical Circulatory Support (MCS) therapies are typically considered for those who have advanced heart failure symptoms but are not candidates for a heart transplant, or are currently waiting for a heart donor to become available.

MCS therapies are highly specialized. Bryan Heart's MCS program has a skilled team of cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, nurse practitioners and nurses that bring experience and expertise to each person’s situation.

What is Heart Failure?

Heart failure exists when one or both of the chambers within the heart no longer pump blood efficiently throughout your body.

In the beginning stages of a heart failure diagnosis, doctors recommend treatments such as changes in lifestyle and various medications. When you no longer respond to medications or your heart failure progresses, additional steps can be taken, which include an evaluation for an implantable surgical heart pump.

You May Be a Candidate for MCS if You Have:

• Worsening shortness of breath when you are resting or with minimal activity
• Increased weight gain or swelling in your legs and arms or abdomen area
• Dizziness or lightheadedness when changing your position (sitting to standing)
• Need to decrease doses of blood pressure medications due to low blood pressures
• Increased hospitalizations for heart failure symptoms
• Worsening kidney function

What is MCS Therapy?

Mechanical circulatory support therapy involves using devices to help your heart pump when parts of your own heart are not working as they should. These devices work to improve blood flow through your heart and help get oxygen-rich blood to your entire body. One of the most common MCS therapies is a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). An LVAD is a device that is surgically implanted into the heart and helps the heart pump more efficiently.

Learn How MCS Therapy Can Benefit You

If you would like to learn more about how MCS therapy can benefit you, contact our team.

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