The ISHLT MCSD Database was developed and implemented in 2001 for the following purposes:
1) to capture worldwide data relating to the implantation and outcome of patients receiving cardiac assist devices designed for and capable of use for 30 or more days
2) to identify risk factors for complications
3) to improve patient selection and management before and after device implantation
4) to generate predictive models of outcome for given patient profiles
5) to generate statistical analyses of the data that can be used as the underlying evidence/ justification for government agency funded studies and clinical trials
6) to identify overall and best practices with the aim of improving current practices
The ISHLT MCSD Database collected data from institutions around the globe from 2001 through 2006. In June, 2006, INTERMACS (the Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support), funded through a 5-year contract from the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), assumed responsibility for collecting device data from centers in the United States. In December 2006, ISHLT discontinued the MCSD Database and began to focus on developing a new International MCS Registry devoted to the collection of device data from institutions worldwide. It is anticipated that this new International MCS Registry will be operational in 2009. Please check back here in late 2008 for progress updates.
