The ABIOMED BVS 5000 system is an investigational pulsatile biventricular assist device. Positioned externally, pneumatically driven two-chambered blood pumps can support one or both sides of the heart. A single console automatically adjusts beat rate and systolic/diastolic ratio based on compressed air flow into and out of the external system. Transthoracic cannulae connect the external system with the patient. Two patient groups are currently approved for BVS investigational use: post-cardiotomy ventricular dysfunction and post-acute myocardial infarction with cardiogenic shock. Established research protocols are followed with regard to data collection. Potential adverse effects fall into three categories: patient related, device related, and cause unknown. Weaning is initiated during cardiac recovery, and if it is successful, the pump is removed. Nursing care is based on standards of care for cardiac surgery coupled with the ABIOMED BVS 5000 nursing protocol
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