Abstract 16736: Does Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) Implantation Affect the Driving Patterns in Patients With End Stage Heart Failure?

Objective: The Canadian Cardiovascular Society recently released recommendations stating stable patients with LVAD may drive a private vehicle 2 months after implantation. Objective evidence supporting this recommendation is limited. We sought to compare data regarding driving habits before and after LVAD implantation. Methods: A standard questionnaire addressing the driving patterns before and after the LVAD implantation was sent to all patients who received an LVAD between July 2009 and February 2014. Results: Ninety four of 124 patients responded to the survey and comprised the study cohort. Average age was 58 years, 69.2% were men and 77.7% were on bridge to transplant. Prior to LVAD implantation, all 94 patients were living at home, 33% were employed, and 87 (93%) were driving. After LVAD implantation, 64 (69%) patients indicated that they drove and 41% drove more than 30 minutes daily. Patients who drove with LVAD, were younger (56 vs 62 years, p=0.02) and were often advised by the healthcare provid...