Left ventricular assist device temporary explantation as a strategy for infection control in a pediatric patient

We report a case of temporary Berlin Heart EXCOR ® explantation in a pediatric patient with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy who suffered an uncontrollable inflow cannulation site infection while on bridge-to-transplantation. Despite failure to thrive and catheter-related infections, once free of the device, the patient was cured of infection us ing systemic antibiotics and surgical debridement. The patient underwent EXCOR® reimplantation after four months, and is awaiting heart transplantation in stable condition. A life-threatening ventricular assist device-related infection may require device explantation under conditions that may not f ulfill conventional explantation criteria despite risks. Temporary explantation can be an effective strategy if isolated systolic dysfunction is managed carefully.
Source: Journal of Artificial Organs - Category: Transplant Surgery Source Type: research