Heart assist devices are medical devices designed to support or enhance the function of the heart in patients with severe heart conditions. These devices can help pump blood more effectively, improving blood flow to vital organs. Common types include ventricular assist devices (VADs) and total artificial hearts, which are often used in patients awaiting a heart transplant or those who are not candidates for surgery. These devices can be implanted surgically or used externally, depending on the patient's needs. Heart assist devices aim to improve quality of life and increase survival rates for individuals with heart failure or other serious cardiac issues.