Principles of HeartMate II implantation to avoid pump malposition and migration

J Card Surg. 2015 Mar;30(3):296-9. doi: 10.1111/jocs.12478. Epub 2014 Dec 4.

Abstract

Proper left ventricular assist device (LVAD) insertion will help maximize LVAD flow and may reduce adverse events such as right heart failure and pump thrombosis. Although no standardized insertion technique has been universally accepted, the goals are: unobstructed inflow cannula, unobstructed outflow graft with avoidance of right ventricular compression, and prevention of pump migration. To achieve these objectives for the HeartMate II LVAD, we delineate four principles: proper pump pocket creation, optimized positioning of inflow cannula and outflow graft, proper pump position in the body, and fixation. These basic principles are easy to implement and have been beneficial in our patients, assuring long-term unobstructed LVAD flow.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cardiac Surgical Procedures / methods*
  • Catheterization / methods
  • Catheters
  • Equipment Failure
  • Foreign-Body Migration / prevention & control
  • Heart Failure / etiology
  • Heart Failure / prevention & control
  • Heart Ventricles*
  • Heart-Assist Devices* / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Thrombosis / etiology
  • Thrombosis / prevention & control