Thoratec HeartMate III, Instructions For Use Manual, Page: 278 / 458

6 Patient Care and Management
6-14 HeartMate III Left Ventricular Assist System Instructions for Use
Ongoing System Assessment and Care
Caring for the Driveline
It is extremely important that the Driveline be protected from extreme or frequent bending or
kinking. Damage to the Driveline, depending on the degree, may cause the Pump to stop.
The patient must be educated about the importance of keeping the Driveline free from damage.
Routinely reinforce the importance of adhering to the following guidelines for Driveline care:
• Manage the Driveline exit site in accordance with the procedure provided by the clinician.
• Do not severely bend or kink the Driveline.
• Do not let the Driveline become twisted.
• If the System Controller is in a carrying case, keep the Driveline away from the zipper.
• Allow for a gentle curve of the Driveline. Do not severely bend the Driveline multiple times or
wrap it tightly.
• Keep the Driveline clean.
Wipe off any dirt or grime that may appear. If necessary, use a towel with soap and warm
water to gently clean the Driveline. However, never submerge the Driveline or other system
components in water or liquid. Refer to
Care of the Driveline on page 8-5 for information
about caring for the Driveline.
• Do not pull on or move the Driveline going through the skin.
• When checking to ensure that the Driveline connector is fully inserted into the System Controller
Driveline socket, gently tug on the metal end of the connector. Do not move or pull on the
Driveline.
• Check that the Modular In-line Connector is properly connected and that the lock is secured.
• Be mindful of where the System Controller is at all times. Protect the System Controller from
falling or from pulling on the Driveline.
• Do not allow the Driveline to snag on anything that can pull on or move the Driveline.
• Check the Driveline daily for signs of damage, such as cuts, holes, or tears. Counsel patients to
inform you immediately if they find signs of Driveline damage.
• Damage due to wear and fatigue of the Driveline has occurred in both the externalized and
implanted portions of the Driveline. Damage to the electrical conductors within the Driveline
may or may not be preceded by visible damage to the outer layer of the Driveline. Driveline
damage may be evidenced by the following:
• A Driveline Communication Fault (Driveline Comm Fault) or Driveline Power Fault on the
System Controller.
• Transient alarms due to short or open circuits, often associated with movement of the
patient or the lead.
• Fluid leakage from the external portion of the Pump Cable.
• Pump stopping.