Exit Site: Actual site in the skin where the driveline exits
HeartMate: Manufacturer’s trademark name for the LVAD
LVAD: Left Ventricular Assist Device
LVAS: Left Ventricular Assist System
MCS: Mechanical circulatory support
MCS Nurse Coordinators: One of the nurses is always on call to help with LVAD issues
Support Staff: Additional staff members that can respond in the event of an LVAD issue
System Controller: The computer or “brains” of the LVAD. It is the box to which the power leads connect. The system controller also displays audible and visual alarms.
Thoratec: Company that manufactures the Heart Mate II LVAD