Rapid deployment of an aortic valve prosthesis during ventricular assist device implantation

Aortic valve incompetence in left ventricular assist device (LVAD) patients is a significant management problem, leading to increased workload on the LVAD and inadequate systemic perfusion. During continuous LVAD therapy even mild aortic incompetence is problematic, associated with reduced aortic leaflet opening, progressive fusion of the leaflets and worsening valvular incompetence. Therefore, repair or replacement of the valve is required at the time of LVAD implant.
Source: The Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation - Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: Tags: Case Anecdotes, Comments and Opinions Source Type: research