Echocardiography for Less-Invasive Implantation of Left Ventricular Assist Devices

ASAIO J. 2017 Jan/Feb;63(1):104-108. doi: 10.1097/MAT.0000000000000456.

Abstract

New surgical techniques aim for less-invasive implantation of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) via small surgical incision sites. Echocardiography plays an important role during patient selection and guidance of the procedure. The surgical incision site can be identified preoperatively by transthoracic echocardiography. Intraoperative identification of left ventricular apex, de-airing, and monitoring heart function is performed by transesophageal echocardiography. This article highlights special echocardiographic considerations during less-invasive LVAD implantation surgeries.

MeSH terms

  • Cardiopulmonary Bypass
  • Echocardiography
  • Heart Ventricles / physiopathology
  • Heart-Assist Devices*
  • Humans
  • Male