What are the two types of ventricular assist devices?

• A. Minimally invasive and surgical
• B. External and implanted
• C. Temporary and permanent
• D. Pediatric and adult

Answer: (A)

The key idea is how the device is delivered and implanted. Ventricular assist devices can be placed using a traditional surgical approach with a full operation, or through minimally invasive techniques with smaller incisions. The distinction between these two methods matters for recovery time, risks, and patient suitability, so the two main categories are minimally invasive placement vs surgical (open) placement.

External vs implanted isn’t the best framework here because many VADs are implanted devices, sometimes with external driveline components, but the core classification used in practice emphasizes the invasiveness of the implantation. Temporary vs permanent describes how long the device is used, not how it’s implanted, and pediatric vs adult refers to patient populations rather than the implantation approach.