Download Cardiologists and PCP Letter (Template)

Template Letter: Cardiologist and Primary Care Physician
Date (month day, year)
Recipient Physician Name
Address
City, State, Zip Code
Re:
Patient Name
Date of birth: __/__/____
Dear Dr. ______________,
As you may know, our mutual patient, Patient name, underwent implantation of the HVAD ® System on [insert
date of implant]. The HVAD® System is a continuous flow ventricular assist device (VAD) indicated for the
treatment of refractory advanced heart failure. This centrifugal flow pump is implanted in the left ventricle, and
sits within the pericardial space. An outflow graft anastomosed to the ascending aorta delivers blood from the
pump to the aorta. The pump’s driveline cable is tunneled subcutaneously and exits the upper abdomen,
where it is connected to the external controller and batteries or a power adaptor for electricity.
In light of the continuous flow physiology, Patient name may not have a palpable pulse. It may be possible to
obtain a mean arterial blood pressure by using a Doppler. As with other ventricular assist devices, Patient name
also requires specific anticoagulation therapy to minimize the potential for blood clots. It is not possible to
manually run this pump, so any pump stop is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Should
this or any other medical emergency occur, please immediately call 911, then call us at [insert 24 hour call
number].
Patient name is scheduled to be discharged from the Name of implanting hospital or nursing care facility if
applicable on [insert date of discharge]. Patient name and his/her family have been trained in how to
manage the pump. We will continue to follow him/her closely in our VAD clinic with regularly scheduled visits
throughout the duration of VAD support, monitoring his/her anticoagulation therapy, medication regimen, and
pump performance.
If you have any questions or would like additional educational materials or training, please contact Name of
VAD program or coordinator name at [insert phone number]. Additional information regarding the HVAD®
System has been included for your reference. You may also reference the manufacturer’s website at
www.heartware.com.
Sincerely,
VAD Surgeon/Cardiologist Name
Professional Title
Implanting Institution Name
Address
City, State, Zip Code
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GL1095 Rev01 11/14