[Driveline Infection of Implantable Left Ventricular Assist Devices].

Abstract

In Japan, the median waiting period from implantable left ventricular assist device( iLVAD) implantation to heart transplantation is 5.1 years, with driveline infections occurring in approximately 20% of cases within the first year. At our institution, we implemented the triple tunnel method and a structured care protocol to mitigate infection risk. This protocol includes meticulous monitoring, the use of sterilized kits, chlorhexidine, and caregiver training. Among 25 patients, driveline infections occurred in 12% (three cases), but none progressed to pump infections. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed infection-free rates of 100% at one year and 85% at three years, slightly surpassing national benchmarks. These outcomes highlight the importance of early detection, multidisciplinary follow-up, and consistent care in ensuring successful long-term management of iLVAD patients.