- LVADs are increasingly being used as a bridge to transplant or destination therapy for advanced heart failure. The number of LVAD implants has grown significantly in recent years and is projected to continue growing as destination therapy becomes more common. LVADs have been shown to improve functional status and quality of life in heart failure patients. While expensive, LVADs can provide survival benefits over medical management for advanced heart failure when transplant is not available. Ongoing research continues to improve device design and outcomes.