This article is written not only to explore the deleterious effects of nonpulsatile flow (namely, gastrointestinal [GI] bleeding), but also to propose the novel concept that deliberate induction of nonpulsatile flow might be harnessed to produce beneficial remodeling in arteriosclerotic arteries. Continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices have proven their efficacy in the treatment of end-stage heart disease. They are a reliable option in bridge-to-transplant and destination therapy. An enigmatic consequence of this therapy has been occult GI bleeding.
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