Background
Short-term mechanical circulatory support may be lifesaving in patients with right
ventricular (RV) failure related to post-cardiotomy cardiogenic shock (PCCS), cardiac
transplantation (CTx), and long-term therapy with a left ventricular assist device
(LVAD). This study evaluates our clinical experience using the CentriMag (Levitronix
LLC, Waltham, Mass) system for temporary mechanical RV support.
Methods
A retrospective review was performed of 29 patients (mean age, 57 ± 14 years) in whom
the CentriMag system was used for RV support from September 2005 to March 2008.
Results
The indication for RV support was PCCS in 7 (24%), CTx in 10 (35%), and LVAD placement
in 12 (41%). The mean support time was 8 ± 8 days. The device was successfully weaned
in 3 PCCS patients (43%), 7 CTx patients (70%), and 7 LVAD patients (58%). Complications
included major infection (pneumonia, sepsis, or LVAD pocket infection) in 13 (45%),
arrhythmia in 13 (45%), reoperation for bleeding in 10 (35%), stroke/encephalopathy
in 3 (10%), and air embolism in 1 (3%). Early mortality (< 30 days or before discharge)
occurred in 14 patients (48%) of which 9 (31%) died with the device in place. Late
death occurred in 2 of 15 patients (13%) who survived to discharge. There were no
device failures.
Conclusions
The CentriMag system provides effective temporary mechanical circulatory support for
RV failure. Ease of implantation and a high rate of successful device weaning justify
the use of the CentriMag system for temporary RV support.
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
April 8,
2009
Received in revised form:
March 13,
2009
Received:
January 13,
2009
Identification
Copyright
© 2009 International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
