Re-initiation of centrifugal ventricular assist device support following failed attempt at cardiac recovery

Given the palliative nature of cardiac transplantation and organ shortage, the importance of promoting cardiac recovery has long been recognized. However, cardiac recovery in children is rare relative to adults1, which is counter-intuitive considering the probable benefit of youth seen in the adult population2,3. The primary obstacle in ventricular assist device (VAD) explantation for recovery is the inability to predict sustainability of improved cardiac function. Therefore, it is important to have a strategy to re-initiate VAD support as a rescue for failed attempt at explant.
Source: The Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation - Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: Tags: Case Anecdotes, Comments and Opinions Source Type: research