Axillary intra-aortic balloon pump, biventricular assist device implantation and subsequent orthotopic heart transplantation in a patient with sickle cell trait. Issue 6 (18th June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Taylor, Marcus; Mouyer, Zakariya; Callan, Paul; Shaw, Steve; Venkateswaran, Rajamiyer; Nwaejike, Nnamdi
• Is Part Of: Journal of surgical case reports. Volume 2022:Issue 6(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-06-18
• Subjects: heart transplantation -- mechanical circulatory support -- axillary intra-aortic balloon pump -- sickle cell disease; Surgery -- Periodicals; Surgery -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 617.005
• DOI: 10.1093/jscr/rjac260
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2042-8812

Abstract

Abstract: A 38-year-old male with sickle cell trait and acute refractory heart failure received an axillary intra-aortic balloon pump and short-term biventricular assist device. He underwent orthotopic heart transplantation 45 days later, which was complicated by major bleeding necessitating significant intra-operative transfusion. Support with veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was provided and successfully weaned five days later. He made a full recovery and remains alive and well 34 months after discharge. We hypothesize that the protective peri-operative measures undertaken, including normothermia during surgery and post-operative haemodynamic stability due to the use of mechanical circulatory support, conveyed a degree of protection against complications associated with sickle cell dysfunction and contributed to the successful outcome.