MercyOne heart pump program extends and improves patients’ lives

When Michael Griffin lived with severe heart failure, everyday activities like walking across a room or climbing a few steps were exhausting. He was constantly sick, incredibly fatigued and had trouble breathing.

But a heart procedure at MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center in 2020 changed his life. Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) has emerged as a powerful option to help patients whose hearts can no longer pump enough blood on…