Wearing the Freedom Undervest may help reduce the risk of driveline infections by:

  • Immobilizing the driveline at the wound site: minimizing movement at the exit site which reduces trauma to the soft tissue.
  • Evenly distributes the weight of the external LVAD equipment without applying tension to the driveline.

The driveline and LVAD equipment is carried comfortably next to the body under the clothing. The driveline is never exposed while wearing the Undervest properly, so there is a much reduced likelihood for snagging or other types of damage to occur to it. When worn properly, the dedicated pockets securely hold the controller and batteries. The larger Kangaroo pouch that houses the pockets will catch the equipment even if in the unlikely event that it inadvertently falls out of the pocket.

The Undervest is made of a 83% Polyester, 17% Lycra blend that offers 4-way stretch and supple compression.

Yes! Machine wash in cold water only. It is a good idea to fasten the Velcro fasteners before washing to preserve their integrity.

Yes! For the HeartMate II and III LVADS, leaving the system controller in its pocket, switch from your batteries to your patient cable as you do normally, while wearing the Undervest. There are gaps in the Velcro fastener on both sides of the Kangaroo pouch where the cable can easily be passed through, depending upon which side you sleep on. Fasten the Undervest closed and enjoy your rest without the VAD bag.  For Heartware LVADS, leave both the controller and one of your batteries in their designated pocket (or anywhere in the larger Kangaroo pouch that is comfortable). Replace and remove the other battery with the charging cable as you would normally do. Pass the charging cable through either of the gaps in the Velcro fastener and rest easier.

We offer the Undervest in 5 sizes: medium, large , X-large , 2XL-3XL and , 4XL-5XL.

The Undervest is available in sizes up to 5XL

No. The controller pocket is lined with an insulating material that actually reflects heat away from your body. While in its pocket, you should feel no heat from the controller.

No. Since your LVAD equipment will be nestled in their pockets and the driveline secured beneath the Undervest, there is no fear of tugging or pulling at the exit site.

Checking your controller or replacing your batteries is easily done by opening up the kangaroo pouch. There are tabs (top and bottom) in the front and on either side, to easily pull the Velcro fastener apart. You can simply look down and check your controller parameters (Heartware) or lift it out of its pocket to view the LED screen (HeartMate II and III). To replace the batteries, unfasten the Velcro on the side where the battery rests, lift it out and switch it as usual, then place the new battery in to the side pocket. Refasten the Velcro by lining up the top and bottom tabs on the front and on each side of the Undervest, for a neat closure.

All of Medi-Materials products are made in the USA!