First results of HeartWare left ventricular assist device implantation with tunnelling of the outflow graft through the transverse sinus

Abstract

LVAD implantation with outflow graft tunnelling through the transverse sinus is an innovative technique to prevent outflow graft damage in case of cardiac resternotomy. The results of this study show that there are no significant differences in pump speed or flow, adverse events or patient outcomes compared with the standard implant techniques. The theoretical benefits of this novel technique are the reduced risk in redo cases and the physiological direction of blood flow. Consequently, this procedure might be particularly suitable for younger patients who received an LVAD as a bridge-to-transplant option.

Effects of pump speed changes on exercise capacity in patients supported with a left ventricular assist device—an overview

“…As a disease affecting continually increasing patient numbers, heart failure (HF) remains a significant global health problem (1). The implantation of left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) has been successfully performed for treating terminal HF for several years (2)(3)(4)(5).…”

How to do it: tips and tricks of minimal-invasive HVAD® implantation—the lateral approach

“…MIS for LVAD is not only technically feasible but also becoming the standard procedure of choice in VAD centres worldwide. Rapid development and miniaturization of next-generation devices, have significantly improved outcomes (2,(19)(20)(21). The novel HVAD pump design is well suited for an MIS approach because of its small size.…”

Durable Continuous-Flow Mechanical Circulatory Support: State of the Art

“…The miniaturization of the pumps described above and their placement within the pericardial space eliminate the need for an abdominal pump pocket [6][7][8][9][10][11][12]. Less surgical trauma and associated bleeding shortens the recovery time and reduces the likelihood of infectious complications, which often occur as a result of blood transfusions and prolonged intensive care [23][24][25][26][27][28][29][30][31][32].…”

“…A less invasive outflow line is through the transverse sinus; this is commonly used for BTT [31] and prevents positional changes of the LVAD after sternal closure. Moreover, it enables easier and safer re-entry during Htx.…”