Using existing technology better: Improving outcomes with the HeartWare left ventricular assist device. (15th May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: MacGowan, Guy A.; Woods, Andrew; Robinson-Smith, Nicola; Tovey, Sian; Bouzas-Cruz, Noelia; Gonzalez-Fernandez, Oscar; McDiarmid, Adam; Parry, Gareth; O'Leary, Denis; Schueler, Stephan
• Is Part Of: International journal of cardiology. Volume 331(2021)
• Page Start: 35
• Page End: 39
• Publication Date: 2021-05-15
• Subjects: Ventricular assist device -- Outcomes; Cardiology -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 616.12
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2021.01.039
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0167-5273

Abstract

Abstract: Background: The HeartWare left ventricular assist device has been in use for over 12 years. We sought to determine how outcomes at our centre have improved over time. Methods: Review of electronic hospital records at the Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. Results: A total of 255 first time adult implants were divided into 2 eras: Era 1: 2009–2015 ( N = 154) and Era 2: 2016–2020 ( N = 101). We prospectively aimed to avoid higher risk Intermacs Classifications in Era 2, which resulted in significant changes in Intermacs class to lower risk in Era 2 ( P < 0.001). There was a significant improvement in survival in Era 2, with 1 year survival increasing from 70 to 80% ( P < 0.05). This was particularly associated with lower 30 day mortality in Era 2 (1.7 ± 2.3 vs 15.5 ± 7%, P < 0.005). This was associated with better right ventricular function in Era 2, and there was a trend to more temporary right ventricular assist devices used in Era 2 (28 ± 13 vs 12 ± 14%, P = 0.06). Deaths from intracranial haemorrhage, sepsis and right heart failure were unchanged between eras, though there was a trend towards less deaths in Era 2 from combined thromboses deaths (stroke and device thrombosis; 3.3 ± 5.4 vs 11.1 ± 7.4%, P = 0.07). Conclusions: Better patient selection in association with more use of temporary right ventricular assist support has resulted in a significant improvement in survival. Intracranial haemorrhage, sepsis and right heart failure remain significant problems.