Your HeartMate 3 Companion Guide: LVAD Accessories and Clothing Recommendations

Although LVAD helps improve the symptoms associated with heart failure and significantly improves quality of life, you may need some modifications in your lifestyle to live freely. Living with the HeartMate 3 system may not be easier for you at first, but it’s not like you cannot live a good quality of life. After LVAD, the protection and safety of the device becomes the priority, and you can make this possible by adopting and creating a lifestyle that not only adds to your safety but also gives you the confidence to move through life with fewer limitations.

Let’s talk about how the right LVAD accessories and clothing can make everyday tasks easier and help you stay organized, so you know exactly what you need and how to choose wisely.

What does the LVAD HeartMate 3 consist of?

The HeartMate 3 system is an advanced technology of the Left Ventricular Assistive Device (LVAD), which consists of the following:

• LVAD pump, which is implanted inside the heart to pump blood
• The controller, which remains outside the body and controls the pump inside
• The driveline connects the pump inside to the batteries and the controller outside
• The batteries that supply the power to let the LVAD pump work effectively

The LVAD system is designed to help patients living with terminal heart disease. The latest LVAD system has now decreased the chances of complications after implantation, which has increased the positive outcomes of the treatment.

What LVAD gear and accessories support HeartMate 3?

Being an LVAD HeartMate 3 user, you must know about the LVAD accessories and gear that can help you throughout the day to carry your device without limiting you from performing daily tasks. Here are our recommendations:

LVAD HeartMate Vest:

Designed to support daily comfort, physical activity, and recreational activities, different LVAD vests are designed with features like breathable fabric, accommodation, and multiple pockets so that you can have the options to choose from according to your needs and convenience. 

LVAD HeartMate Hoodie:

To offer comfort and convenience according to the weather, the LVAD HeartMate hoodie is designed so that you can carry your LVAD device without compromising on your comfort.

LVAD HeartMate Harness:

Specifically made for HeartMate devices, LVAD harness belts bear three pouches to hold the batteries and the controller securely. This harness belt allows you to engage in activities with comfort.

LVAD HeartMate Shirt:

Built with battery and controller pockets, LVAD shirts support HeartMate 3 devices and offer all-day comfort with breathable fabric. LVAD HeartMate Flannels are perfect for keeping your device components safe while giving you a stylish look.

LVAD HeartMate Tank top:

To offer comfort above all, LVAD tank tops are built with pockets that can accommodate the HeartMate controller size and shape, and with a loose fit design to offer more ventilation, especially in hot weather.

LVAD HeartMate Active Pack:

The LVAD active pack is designed for HeartMate 3 users who prefer to live an active life but need safety for their device throughout the day.

LVAD Custom Shirt:

For more convenience, various brands like LVADGear now offer LVAD custom shirt options, in which you have the choice to design your own shirt with the preferred style and features you need specifically. 

What should you have with you as an LVAD user all the time?

Being an LVAD user, you must know the importance of having a backup all the time. It means you must be prepared all the time to face inconveniences, especially when you are travelling. Here is what you need to do:

1. Extra Pair of Batteries:

As an LVAD patient, you must always carry an extra pair of batteries in case your batteries run out of power. If you are travelling, fully charged batteries should always be with you. Make a list of essential items for travelling and write batteries on top of the list. You should never leave home without it, even if you are travelling for a short distance.

2. An LVAD Bag:

To store essential items and batteries, you need a water-resistant LVAD bag that can accommodate a pair of batteries safely and still have space to carry other essential items. The LVAD bag has a structured design to protect the device inside and is made of breathable material to prevent overheating.

3. LVAD HeartMate 3 Accessories:

Managing the HeartMate 3 device is quite a task, and you may need proper support to handle it with care and security. That is when you will need HeartMate 3 accessories like the LVAD bag, LVAD HeartMate Sleeping Belt, which are designed specifically to help you live with the device easily.

4. Driveline Stabilizer:

A driveline stabilizer helps to keep the driveline in place, which reduces the tugging and ultimately lowers the risks of infection. After LVAD implantation, one of the major complications is infection, and one can lower this with the help of a stabilizer.

5. Emergency Contact Details:

One thing you must have with you all the time is the emergency contact number list, so that whenever you need professional help, your caregiver or anybody around can contact the relevant person to help you in times of need.

How does LVAD gear improve everyday life?

LVAD gear was designed to help improve the quality of life in the first place by safely accommodating your device and giving you the freedom to move and perform everyday tasks with peace of mind. LVAD gear, like an LVAD shirt, Vest, or shorts are designed with the following features:

• Quality Material for comfort and reduced irritation
• Hidden LVAD controller and battery pockets to fit your device safely
• Hook & Loop system to manage wires
• Reinforced stitching with heavy-duty thread
• Easy Accessibility with zippers for quick access
• Discreet design offers confidence to go out in public

The design of the LVAD gear is made according to the types of LVAD devices. For HeartMate LVAD, the pocket size and shape of batteries and the controller are considered while manufacturing, so that the device fits perfectly and stays in place, even when you move, to promote safety.

Pros and Cons of Living with an LVAD

After LVAD, you need to learn to live with the device 24/7, and it can be challenging for you, especially at the initial recovery stage. But the quality of life it gives by resolving symptoms associated with heart failure is what you need more than anything. Here are some of the pros and cons of living with an LVAD:

Pros

• Improves circulation & blood flow to each organ of the body

• Improves quality of life

• Promote independence by improving health

• Allows you to perform and resume with daily life activities

Cons

• You need to manage your device and must carry it with you at all times 
• You have to change your lifestyle completely, and it also includes how you sleep and rest
• You need to modify your activity level and must always avoid swimming to prevent device damage.

Although it can be challenging to live with an LVAD, the right gear and accessories are here to offer both comfort and functionality. LVAD gear not only makes it easier for you but also gives you the confidence to live a life that we can say is the new normal.

What should you keep in mind as a Caregiver to an LVAD patient?

Caregivers are the biggest support system after LVAD, as they not only help you to manage the device but also give you the mental stability. Caregivers' support feels like healing mentally as well as physically. So, as a caregiver, you must know certain things to keep in mind while giving care to your patient. Here are some of the essentials:

• Understand the device completely and know the function of each component.
• Check batteries and learn the beeps of the controller.
• Know how you maintain hygiene and protect the driveline.
• Learn safe techniques to change LVAD dressing to avoid infection.
• Always keep backup batteries with you.
• Encourage the patient with comfortable and safe clothing options like the LVAD vest and LVAD tank top.

Having the right HeartMate 3 accessories not only helps the patient but also supports you in providing care without getting exhausted.

Tips for maintaining LVAD gear and accessories

Maintaining an LVAD gear is more like a necessity than just a matter of hygiene, as poor handling techniques can compromise its functionality. Following a safe, caring routine can increase the longevity of LVAD gear and accessories, and that is why you need the tips listed below:

• Clean LVAD clothing as instructed by the manufacturer.
• Do not use harsh detergents or hot water, and use the hand washing technique.
• Regularly check the pockets, zippers, and closures for safety.
• Replace old, worn-out LVAD gear with the new one.
• It is better to have an LVAD gear collection rather than just having one piece of clothing.
• Use air-dry methods only and avoid using heating methods.
• Can you travel with an LVAD?

One of the frequently asked questions after LVAD is can you travel with an LVAD? Although you need some time initially for recovery, you can travel with an LVAD only after your doctor declares it safe for you. However, you need some preparation to travel safely. Here are the travel tips:

Travel Tips:

• Make an LVAD bag with an extra pair of fully charged batteries, and also keep a portable charger with you, especially when you travel long distances.
• Other than regular clothing, pack LVAD accessories like the LVAD active vest or LVAD denim vest to make your travel experience better without compromising safety and style.
• Make a checklist for travelling and pack every essential item.
• Always keep your LVAD card with you with medical records.
• Have the emergency contact number and LVAD center information located at the destination.
• Keep your batteries in quick access to avoid any inconvenience.
• It is better to have a caregiver with you who knows and understands the LVAD device completely.

How to Choose the Right LVAD Clothing?

When choosing the right LVAD clothing, you should focus on the features and the functionality it can provide so that you can stay comfortable and protected. Here is how you should choose:

1. Look for the quality of fabric or material and select what suits you the best. 

2. Always buy LVAD clothing that is compatible with your device type. For example, HeartMate 3 accessories are only for HeartMate devices and not for HeartWare.

3. Built-in hidden pockets should have easy accessibility to keep the batteries and the controller.

4. Decide whether you need a breathable fabric for hot summer days or you need a comfortable LVAD hoodie for cooler evenings. It is best to have a collection so that you can choose from various options.

5. A proper driveline management system should be preferred.

6. Reinforced seams can withstand the device's weight, so prefer heavy-duty thread stitching for an improved experience.

7. LVAD gear has now evolved and is available in various styles, like textile vests and denim vests, so that you can choose according to your style and preference.

Smart Ways to Buy Quality LVAD Gear:

Not all LVAD clothing is built the same, and that is why you need to buy from a quality brand that offers both functionality and comfort. Although platforms like Amazon are now used profoundly, knowing where to shop can make a real difference. Let’s discuss some points of buying LVAD clothing from different platforms.

Amazon:

• The Amazon platform can give you various options in styles
• It is limited to the specific needs of LVAD patients.
• The quality of each product can vary
• You may experience the convenience and fast shipping
• There is no option to customize your own LVAD shirt

Retailers:

• Every item is made specifically with the LVAD user and their needs in mind
• They offer designs that are not available on other platforms
• You can take guidance or resolve any issue by contacting the retailers directly
• Buying from direct retailers like LVADGear offers benefits like support from the team and a custom builder option where you can design your own LVAD shirt with personal style and features.

Living Life with an LVAD HeartMate 3 Device

Living with the HeartMate 3 LVAD can be a big adjustment, but it is possible to lead a fulfilling life with some helpful accessories and adjustments. Using the right clothing and carrying essential items like extra batteries and a good bag can make daily activities easier and safer. Always being prepared and having the right gear can help you feel more comfortable and confident as you manage your device. Remember, you are not alone on this journey, and the right support can make a big difference in improving your quality of life.

FAQs

What equipment do I need to wear as an LVAD patient?

An LVAD patient has to wear two batteries and the controller, which are the external components of the LVAD device. It can be worn easily with LVAD-specific clothing.

How to take a shower with an LVAD?

To take a shower with an LVAD, you need to keep the device in a secure LVAD shower bag, and you must wear it the whole time to avoid tugging on the driveline and to prevent device damage.

How can I sleep with an LVAD?

Sleeping while keeping the device in an LVAD sleeping belt that is specifically made to keep the controller and batteries can help you rest without discomfort. However, the best sleeping position is sleeping on your back.

What should LVAD patients have with them at all times?

LVAD patients should have backup batteries, their doctor’s contact number, and the LVAD clothing with them at all times.

Can I exercise after LVAD implantation?

Exercise after LVAD implantation is a part of the rehabilitation and recovery. However, the intensity can vary according to the doctor’s advice and the general condition of each patient.