VADs are usually classified according to the mode of blood flow, namely pulsatile or continuous. Continuous types can be further subdivided based on the biomechanics of the pump: centrifugal or axial.

The HeartMate VE Left Ventricular Assist Device (vented electric abdominally positioned pulsatile blood pump; Thoratec Corp., Pleasanton, CA), approved as a permanent support, or destination ...