Factors influencing health-related quality of life of patients with a left ventricular assist device: a systematic review and thematic synthesis

Aims Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are increasingly being used in the treatment of advanced heart failure. Left ventricular assist device patients frequently report improvements in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) post-implantation. However, HRQOL varies over time and between patients, which can be explained by patient-related and environmental factors, as individual studies suggest. This review aims to synthesize qualitative evidence on factors influencing HRQOL of LVAD patients. Methods and results We systematically searched the databases PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, and CINAHL for qualitative studies on factors influencing HRQOL of patients with continuous flow LVADs. The included papers were synthesized using a thematic synthesis. The results were validated in discussion with a patient and practical implications were jointly developed. We included 11 papers and developed 7 themes that represent influencing factors for HRQOL of LVAD patients: disease experiences, emotional reactivity, heart failure and mechanical circulatory support symptoms, medical care, self-care, self-concept, and social environment. Conclusion The identified themes highlight influencing factors on HRQOL. These help to explain variation in patient outcomes and to better consider the individual situation in rehabilitation. Based on the results, four strategies are proposed for promoting psychosocial outcomes: facilitate self-care, ensure social support, offer psychosocial support, and manage patient expectations.