Background: Patients with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) require intensive follow-up
due to complications such as driveline infections, right ventricular failure, technical
device issues, and anticoagulation-related problems. Additional challenges like hypovolemia
and patient adherence complicate their management. To prevent complications, ensure
early detection and treatment, and better inform and connect patients to the outpatient
clinic, additional telemonitoring was introduced. The aim of the study was to analyze
the assessment of an additional telemedicine tool in postoperative patient care after
LVAD implantation.
Methods: An app-based program with daily engagement reminders was developed for LVAD patients,
accessible through smartphones or computers. The app includes daily questionnaires
addressing vital signs, VAD parameters, anticoagulation status, wound condition, overall
well-being, and any complications. Individual pathways for each LVAD system and specific
anticoagulation regimens were created to enhance patient-tailored management. It also
features a self-education library, reminders, a chat tool, and options for secure
data transmission. We included 27 patients in our study: 19 (60%) secondarily (30.5 ± 20.9
months after discharge) and 8 (40%) primarily (before discharge) after LVAD implantation.
Patients with Total Artificial Heart (TAH), right or biventricular devices were excluded
from this study. An online survey was conducted after 1 year.
Results: The mean age of the 24 male and 3 female patients was 55.5 ± 2.3 years. The app was
used for an average of 8.0 ± 1.5 minutes daily, with no reported discontinuation.
Most users found the app well-tailored to their needs, reporting an average satisfaction
score of 8.2 out of 10. Of the patients included secondarily, 68% felt there was no
change in follow-up care quality, but 32% believed the app provided enhanced security.
The feature My Tasks was the most favored (88.9%), followed by Photo Sharing (59.3%)
and Chat Function (48.1%).
Conclusion: The app demonstrates effectiveness in supporting LVAD patient management and engagement,
with high satisfaction rates and consistent usage. Its intuitive design ensures ease
of handling for patients, facilitating seamless integration into their daily routines.
Early inclusion is crucial for promoting patient adherence and overall success. Future
studies should explore the app’s impact on hospital admissions, preventive care, and
the frequency of patient–provider interactions to further optimize care and resource
utilization.
