Prothrombotic Activity of Cytokine-Activated Endothelial Cells and Shear-Activated Platelets in the Setting of Ventricular Assist Device Support

Mechanical circulatory support devices, i.e., Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs), are increasingly utilized for hemodynamic restoration in patients with advanced and end-stage heart failure.1 The latest generation of miniaturized, continuous-flow LVADs has afforded enhanced patient survival and quality of life compared to earlier pulsatile pneumatic systems, and is now approved for both bridge-to-transplant as well as for definitive destination therapy.1 Despite clinical efficacy of these devices, LVAD thrombosis, either in the form of pump thrombosis or as thromboembolic events, remains a common and vexing complication, severely affecting long-term outcomes.

Source: The Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation - February 18, 2019 Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: Alice Apostoli, Valentina Bianchi, Nina Bono, Annalisa Dimasi, Kaitlyn R Ammann, Yana Roka Moiia, Andrea Montisci, Jawaad Sheriff, Danny Bluestein, Gianfranco B Fiore, Federico Pappalardo, Gabriele Candiani, Alberto Redaelli, Marvin J Slepian, Filippo Con Source Type: research