Abstract: Objective: To systematically review and synthesize qualitative studies on the life perception experience of patients after Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) implantation, and to provide a basis for the development of targeted measures which improve patients' quality of life. Methods: We searched for qualitative research on life perception and experience of patients after VAD implantation from Chinese and English databases. The retrieval period is from the establishment of the database to February 2023. The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tool for qualitative studies in Australia (2016 edition) was used to evaluate the quality of included studies. And the results were consolidated using aggregative integration approach. Results: A total of 15 articles are included, with 56 complete research findings grouped into 10 categories by their similarities. And 4 integrated findings were synthesized, namely multidimensional self change, adaptation to VAD, the needs and resources of VAD patients, device management and security of VAD. Conclusion: The patients after VAD implantation experience multidimensional self change. Medical staff should guide patients correctly and assist them in making positive adaptation, provide support by integrating resources to meet the needs of patients, and help them achieve self-management, so as to promote their early reintegration into society.

Key words: Ventricular Assist Device (VAD); perception; experience; qualitative research; Meta-synthesis