Right ventricular assist device implantation--a new transcutaneous approach

Thorac Cardiovasc Surg. 2004 Dec;52(6):378-9. doi: 10.1055/s-2004-821321.

Abstract

The necessity for a secondary right heart assist device (RVAD) is a disastrous complication in left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support with respect to both complications and outcome. We have developed a new technique for inflow and outflow cannulation via a transcutaneous cannula in the femoral vein and a prosthesis-supported arterial cannula into the pulmonary artery, which does not necessitate rethoracotomy for device explantation. In addition to the simplified RVAD removal this transcutaneous approach may reduce the complications in patients requiring RVAD support.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cardiac Surgical Procedures / methods*
  • Equipment Safety
  • Heart-Assist Devices*
  • Humans
  • Prosthesis Implantation / methods*
  • Ventricular Dysfunction, Right / surgery*