Technic for implanting biventricular external assistance devices. Pending cardiac transplantation
Ninet, J.; Jarolin, G.; Vigneron, M.; Cochet, P.; el Kirat, M.; Neidecker, J.; Champsaur, G.
Presse Medicale 18(20): 1024-1027
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0755-4982 PMID: 2524796 Document Number: 346338
The extensive development of orthotopic heart transplantation results in a relative shortage of grafts. When cardiac grafts are unavailable, some patients at the end-stage of decompensated heart failure may benefit from a biventricular external circulatory assistance device as a "bridge" to transplantation. We describe a reproducible technique for the implantation of such external devices, based on the systematic use of extracorporeal circulation. This technique was tested in 8 patients. Its main advantage is that it prevents thromboembolic complications which are a constant threat when the devices are used for a prolonged period.