Mechanical circulatory support for the right ventricle in the setting of a left ventricular assist device. (November 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Steffen, Robert J; Halbreiner, M Scott; Zhang, Li; Fukamachi, Kiyotaka; Soltesz, Edward G; Starling, Randall C; Moazami, Nader
• Is Part Of: Expert review of medical devices. Volume 11:Number 6(2014)
• Page Start: 587
• Page End: 593
• Publication Date: 2014-11
• Subjects: heart failure -- mechanical circulatory support -- right ventricular failure -- right ventricular recovery -- ventricular assist devices; Medical instruments and apparatus -- Periodicals; 610.28
• DOI: 10.1586/17434440.2014.940316
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1743-4440

Abstract

Abstract : Right ventricular failure is a difficult problem to manage and typically carries a dismal prognosis. In the setting of post-left ventricular assist device implantation (LVAD), right ventricular dysfunction both in the early and late stages is of particularly high incidence and concern. There are currently no agreed upon preoperative algorithms to predict patients at risk for this problem, thus adding another level of complexity to treatment. Furthermore, there is no current technology available for chronic right ventricular support and the devices currently in use are LVADS modified to adapt to the right circulatory system. This review provides an overview of right ventricular failure, particularly after LVAD implantation, and describes the survival outcomes and continued challenges in this area.