Assessment of Recurrent Heart Failure Associated with Left Ventricular Assist Device Dysfunction

Expression of Extracellular Matrix Genes During Myocardial Recovery From Heart Failure After Left Ventricular Assist Device Support

“…It is known that functional recovery from heart failure can be achieved through mechanical unloading using LVADs; however, the rate of recovery sufficient to allow explantation of the device is usually low and the incidence of recurrent failure is high. [1][2][3] In an attempt to increase both the rate and durability of recovery a combination therapy protocol was developed at our center. This protocol combines LVAD support with a pharmacologic regime that initially maximizes unloading-induced reverse remodeling and then stimulates physiologic cardiac hypertrophy and improves cardiac function.…”

Evaluating Heart Failure After Implantation of Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices

“…Small studies evaluating displacement-pump LVADs showed that kinks or obstruction of the inflow or outflow cannula occurred in 7% to 50% of LVAD patients with heart failure [16,17]. Although data in continuous-flow LVADs are lacking, the left ventricular myocardium may obstruct the inflow cannula after improper surgical placement, migration, or ventricular remodeling (Fig.…”

Aortic valve closure associated with HeartMate left ventricular device support: Technical considerations and long-term results

“…Patients who have an existing prosthetic valve and require LVAD support also present a management dilemma because of their increased risk of thromboembolism during periods when series flow conditions are episodically replaced with parallel conditions through the native outflow tract. 7 Historically, uncorrected moderate or greater aortic insufficiency and/or a pre-existing prosthetic aortic valve were considered contraindications to LVAD support. However, successful aortic valve closure at the time of LVAD implant has been reported without untoward effects.…”