Effects of a percutaneous mechanical circulatory support device for medically refractory right ventricular failure

The ProtekDuo Cannula: A Comprehensive Review of Efficacy and Clinical Applications in Right Ventricular Failure

Right ventricular failure (RVF) is a clinical challenge associated with various underlying acute and chronic medical conditions, necessitating diverse management strategies including mechanical circulatory support (MCS). The ProtekDuo cannula represents an important advancement in medical devices for MCS in the setting of RVF. When combined with an extracorporeal blood pump, the dual-lumen design allows for direct bypass of the RV using simultaneous drainage and return of blood using percutaneous, single-site access. Studies have reported favorable outcomes with the ProtekDuo cannula and low device-related complications, but comparative studies with other MCS devices are limited. Still, the ProtekDuo cannula has numerous advantages; however, it is not without challenges, and opportunities for further research exist. The ProtekDuo cannula holds significant potential for future advancements in the field of MCS, offering promising solutions for RVF management.

Pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of right ventricular failure: A state of the art review of mechanical support devices

The function of the right ventricle (RV) is to drive the forward flow of blood to the pulmonary system for oxygenation before returning to the left ventricle. Due to the thin myocardium of the RV, its function is easily affected by decreased preload, contractile motion abnormalities, or increased afterload. While various etiologies can lead to changes in RV structure and function, sudden changes in RV afterload can cause acute RV failure which is associated with high mortality. Early detection and diagnosis of RV failure is imperative for guiding initial medical management. Echocardiographic findings of reduced tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (<1.7) and RV wall motion (RV S' <10 cm/s) are quantitatively supportive of RV systolic dysfunction. Medical management commonly involves utilizing diuretics or fluids to optimize RV preload, while correcting the underlying insult to RV function. When medical management alone is insufficient, mechanical circulatory support (MCS) may be necessary. However, the utility of MCS for isolated RV failure remains poorly understood. This review outlines the differences in flow rates, effects on hemodynamics, and advantages/disadvantages of MCS devices such as intra-aortic balloon pump, Impella, centrifugal-flow right ventricular assist devices, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and includes a detailed review of the latest clinical trials and studies analyzing the effects of MCS devices in acute RV failure.

Impella RP Flex: Rescue for the Failing Right Ventricle After Heart Transplantation-Case Report

Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction (RVD) after orthotopic heart transplantation (OHT) is a common cause of morbidity and mortality. Impella RP Flex was recently approved for RV support as a temporary mechanical circulatory device. We present the first case of its use in managing RVD in a patient after OHT. Here, a 40 year old male patient with familial dilated cardiomyopathy and factor V Leiden mutation presented with Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI) stage B cardiogenic shock. Hemodynamics at admission were indicative of need for intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) support. Hemodynamics improved and patient underwent OHT. Postoperative day (POD) 1, IABP support was changed to 1:2 and eventually removed. Hemodynamics deteriorated quickly, requiring pharmacologic RV support and diuresis, but refractory RV failure persisted. Impella RP Flex was chosen due to the patient's small size and was placed via the right internal jugular vein on POD 12. The procedure was well tolerated, with the patient ambulatory the following day (POD 13). Impella was removed on POD 25 after 13 days of support. Patient achieved normal kidney, intrinsic rhythm improved sinus rhythm, and ultimately discharged on POD 50. Impella RP flex has emerged as a promising future indication as single or biventricular support postcardiac transplantation.

Outcome of right ventricular microaxial pump support in patients undergoing cardiac surgery

Right ventricular failure (RVF) after cardiac surgery is associated with an in-hospital mortality rate of up to 75%. Microaxial flow pumps are one of the mechanical circulatory supports (MCS) options available for the treatment of RVF, however the specifics of timing and indication for MCS, as well as predictors for survival, remain unclear due to a dearth of published data. We evaluated the clinical outcome of patients treated with Impella-RP for predictors of mortality and the hemodynamic effects of the pump. This is a single-center retrospective observational study involving adult patients who underwent cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass between January 2019 and December 2020 in cardiac surgery and required therapeutic management of RVF with an Impella-RP. Overall, 18 patients were included and analyzed for factors that could be associated with mortality, or that could be predictors of patient outcomes for this population. Treatment of RVF with Impella-RP improved the patient hemodynamics significantly and had a survival rate of 61% within 30 days. Patients with isolated CABG or better liver function before implantation had a better survival rate, which may indicate that underlying disease and timing of implantation are significant for successful treatment of RVF.

Right heart failure after durable left ventricular assist device implantation

INTRODUCTION

Right heart failure (RHF) is a well-known complication after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation and portends increased morbidity and mortality. Understanding the mechanisms and predictors of RHF in this clinical setting may offer ideas for early identification and aggressive management to minimize poor outcomes. A variety of medical therapies and mechanical circulatory support options are currently available for the management of post-LVAD RHF.

AREAS COVERED

We reviewed the existing definitions of RHF including its potential mechanisms in the context of durable LVAD implantation and currently available medical and device therapies. We performed a literature search using PubMed (from 2010 to 2023).

EXPERT OPINION

RHF remains a common complication after LVAD implantation. However, existing knowledge gaps limit clinicians' ability to adequately address its consequences. Early identification and management are crucial to reducing the risk of poor outcomes, but existing risk stratification tools perform poorly and have limited clinical applicability. This is an area ripe for investigation with the potential for major improvements in identification and targeted therapy in an effort to improve outcomes.

Right Ventricular Failure: A Concise Review

Right ventricular failure (RVF) is a critical condition that significantly impacts morbidity and mortality in affected patients. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of RVF by discussing its background, etiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic studies, medical treatment, and mechanical assistive devices.

Timing, positioning and ancillary therapies: the triad for successful Impella RP

Clear clinical guidelines for the assessment and treatment of right ventricular failure (RVF) remain an unmet need. Although high complexity patients are common in this setting, the ideal management remains uncertain, resulting in high mortality rates despite presumably optimal medical therapy. Timely treatment with Impella RP may offer benefits by supplying circulatory support during the acute RVF phase and providing the time and unloading necessary for native right heart recovery. As such, mastering the technicalities and ancillary therapies is crucial to best utilize this salvage opportunity, particularly in these high complexity patients. Here, we report three different clinical scenarios of medically refractory RVF supported with Impella RP to provide examples and discuss the contribution of mechanical RV support to patient outcomes.

Mechanical Circulatory Support and Critical Care Management of High-Risk Acute Pulmonary Embolism

Hemodynamically significant pulmonary embolism (PE) remains a widely prevalent, underdiagnosed condition associated with mortality rates as high as 30%. The main driver of poor outcomes is acute right ventricular failure that remains clinically challenging to diagnose and requires critical care management. Treatment of high-risk (or massive) acute PE has traditionally included systemic anticoagulation and thrombolysis. Mechanical circulatory support, including both percutaneous and surgical approaches, are emerging as treatment options for refractory shock due to acute right ventricular failure in the setting of high-risk acute pulmonary embolism.

RIGHT VENTRICULAR DYSFUNCTION IN SEPSIS: AN UPDATED NARRATIVE REVIEW

ABSTRACT

Sepsis is a multisystem disease process, which constitutes a significant public health challenge and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Among other systems, sepsis is known to affect the cardiovascular system, which may manifest as myocardial injury, arrhythmias, refractory shock, and/or septic cardiomyopathy. Septic cardiomyopathy is defined as the reversible systolic and/or diastolic dysfunction of one or both ventricles. Left ventricle dysfunction has been extensively studied in the past, and its prognostic role in patients with sepsis is well documented. However, there is relatively scarce literature on right ventricle (RV) dysfunction and its role. Given the importance of timely detection of septic cardiomyopathy and its bearing on prognosis of patients, the role of RV dysfunction has come into renewed focus. Hence, through this review, we sought to describe the pathophysiology of RV dysfunction in sepsis and what have we learnt so far about its multifactorial nature. We also elucidate the roles of different biomarkers for its detection and prognosis, along with appropriate management of such patient population.

Percutaneous Pulmonary Artery Cannulation to Treat Acute Secondary Right Heart Failure While on Veno-venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Right heart failure (RHF) is a common, yet difficult to manage, complication of severe acute respiratory distress syndrome requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) that is associated with increased mortality. Reports of the use of percutaneous mechanical circulatory support devices for concurrent right heart and respiratory failure are limited. This series describes the percutaneous cannulation of the pulmonary artery for conversion from veno-venous to veno-pulmonary artery return ECMO in 21 patients who developed secondary RHF. All patients cannulated between May 2019 and September 2021 were included. Either a 19 or 21 French venous cannula was placed percutaneously into the pulmonary artery via the internal jugular or subclavian vein, providing a total of 821 days of support (median 23 [4-71] days per patient) with flows up to 6 L/min. Five patients underwent cannulation at the bedside, with the remainder performed in the cardiac catheterization laboratory. Pulmonary artery cannulation occurred after 12 [8.5-23.5] days of ECMO support. Vasoactive infusion requirements decreased significantly within 24 hours of pulmonary artery cannula placement (p = 0.0004). Nonetheless, 75% of these patients expired after a median of 12 [4-63] days of support, with three patients found to have had significant pericardial effusions peri-arrest. This cannulation technique may be an effective alternative to veno-arterial ECMO cannulation or the placement of a dual-lumen cannula for the treatment of RHF.

Interaction between va-ecmo and the right ventricle

BACKGROUND

The response of the right ventricle (RV) to the hemodynamic effects of veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) is currently unpredictable. We hypothesized that the presence of uni- or bi-ventricular failure before implantation and the cannulation strategy may influence this interaction. We sought to assess the RV performance during VA-ECMO support and identify RV-related predictors of successful weaning.

METHODS

Changes of RV size and function during VA-ECMO support by echocardiography were retrospectively analyzed in 87 consecutive adult patients between February, 2008, and June, 2017. Predictors of successful weaning due to myocardial recovery were evaluated by multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

RV echocardiographic parameters did not vary significantly during VA-ECMO support, neither after stratification by type of cannulation or the presence of isolated or biventricular failure. Successful weaning was conditioned by the absence of RV dysfunction before implantation (OR, 14.7; 95%CI, 13.3-140.3; p=0.025) or in the last day of support (OR, 9.5; 95%CI, 1.6-54; p=0.011), and was favored by a total or partial recovery of RV function during the assistance (OR, 6.2; 95%CI, 1.7-22.4; p=0.005). RV improvement was more often observed in patients with acute RV failure and longer support, while VA-ECMO configuration, additional mechanical support or pharmacological therapy had no effect.

CONCLUSIONS

Preservation or improvement of RV function during VA-ECMO is essential for successful weaning. RV echocardiographic performance does not change significantly during VA-ECMO support and is not influenced by cannulation type or the presence of uni- or bi-ventricular failure before implantation.

The Diagnosis and Treatment of Postoperative Right Heart Failure

BACKGROUND

Acute right heart failure is a life-threatening condition that can arise postoperatively. The options for symptomatic treatment have been markedly expanded in recent years through the introduction of percutaneously implantable mechanical cardiac support systems.

METHODS

This review is based on publications retrieved by a selective literature search in PubMed as well as on guidelines from Germany and abroad.

RESULTS

The diagnostic evaluation of right heart failure is chiefly based on echocardiography and pulmonary arterial catheteri - zation and is intended to lead to immediate treatment. Alongside treatment of the cause of the condition, supportive management is crucial to patient survival. A variety of ventilation strategies depending on the situation, catecholamine therapies, inhaled selective pulmonary vasodilators, and cardiac support systems are available for this purpose. The in-hospital mortality of postoperative right heart failure is 5-17 %. The results of the use of cardiac support systems reported in case series are dis - appointing, but nonetheless good compared to what these critically ill patients would face without such treatment. In one observational study, the 30-day survival rate was 73.3%.

CONCLUSION

Survival is aided by the rapid recognition of right heart failure, targeted multidisciplinary treatment, and contact with an extracorporeal life support (ECLS) center for additional supportive treatment measures. Further studies on the use of pharmacological and mechanical cardiac support systems must be carried out to provide stronger evidence on which treatment recommendations can be based.

A Comprehensive Review of Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices

Treatment strategies to combat cardiogenic shock (CS) have remained stagnant over the past decade. Mortality rates among patients who suffer CS after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remain high at 50%. Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices have evolved as novel treatment strategies to restore systemic perfusion to allow cardiac recovery in the short term, or as durable support devices in refractory heart failure in the long term. Haemodynamic parameters derived from right heart catheterization assist in the selection of an appropriate MCS device and escalation of mechanical support where needed. Evidence favouring the use of one MCS device over another is scant. An intra-aortic balloon pump is the most commonly used short-term MCS device, despite providing only modest haemodynamic support. Impella CP® has been increasingly used for CS in recent times and remains an important focus of research for patients with AMI-CS. Among durable devices, Heartmate® 3 is the most widely used in the USA. Adequately powered randomized controlled trials are needed to compare these MCS devices and to guide the operator for their use in CS. This article provides a brief overview of the types of currently available MCS devices and the indications for their use.

Comprehensive evaluation of Impella RP® in right ventricular failure

Right ventricular failure has a high morbidity and mortality in patients suffering from advanced heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, acute myocardial infarction after cardiac surgery and in left ventricular assist device patients. The Impella RP^® catheter is a mechanical circulatory device, positioned from a venous femoral percutaneous access and passing through the tricuspid and pulmonary valves, reaches the pulmonary artery. Impella RP (Abiomed Inc., MA, USA) acts as a direct right ventricle bypass and it provides a flow up to 4.4 liters per minute, unloading the right ventricle. The main contraindications are: thrombi in the vena cava, right atrium and ventricle and pulmonary artery; mechanical tricuspid or pulmonary prostheses. In this review, the principles of operations, clinical applications and results of Impella RP are summarized and evaluated.

Temporary Right-Ventricular Assist Devices: A Systematic Review

Acute right-sided heart failure (RHF) is a complex clinical syndrome, with a wide range of clinical presentations, associated with increased mortality and morbidity, but about which there is a scarcity of evidence-based literature. A temporary right-ventricular assist device (t-RVAD) is a potential treatment option for selected patients with severe right-ventricular dysfunction as a bridge-to-recovery or as a permanent solution. We sought to conduct a systematic review to determine the safety and efficacy of t-RVAD implantation. Thirty-one studies met the inclusion criteria, from which data were extracted. Successful t-RVAD weaning ranged between 23% and 100%. Moreover, 30-day survival post-temporary RAVD implantation ranged from 46% to 100%. Bleeding, acute kidney injury, stroke, and device malfunction were the most commonly reported complications. Notwithstanding this, t-RVAD is a lifesaving option for patients with severe RHF, but the evidence stems from small non-randomized heterogeneous studies utilizing a variety of devices. Both the etiology of RHF and time of intervention might play a major role in determining the t-RVAD outcome. Standardized endpoints definitions, design and methodology for t-RVAD trials is needed. Furthermore, efforts should continue in improving the technology as well as improving the timely provision of a t-RVAD.

Heart Failure-Related Cardiogenic Shock: Pathophysiology, Evaluation and Management Considerations: Review of Heart Failure-Related Cardiogenic Shock

Despite increasing prevalence in critical care units, cardiogenic shock related to HF (HF-CS) is incompletely understood and distinct from acute myocardial infarction related CS. This review highlights the pathophysiology, evaluation, and contemporary management of HF-CS.

Mechanical Circulatory Support in Right Ventricular Failure

Right ventricular dysfunction presents unique challenges in patients with cardiopulmonary disease. When optimal medical therapy fails, mechanical circulatory support is considered. Devices can by classified according to whether they are deployed percutaneously or surgically, whether the pump is axial or centrifugal, whether the right ventricle is bypassed directly or indirectly, and whether the support is short term or long term. Each device has advantages and disadvantages. Acute mechanical circulatory support is a suitable temporizing strategy in advanced heart failure. Future research in right ventricular mechanical circulatory support will optimize device management, refine patient selection, and ultimately improve clinical outcomes.

Mechanical Circulatory Support in Acute Myocardial Infarction and Cardiogenic Shock

Mechanical circulatory support devices are increasingly used for the treatment of acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock. These devices provide different levels of univentricular and biventricular support, have different mechanisms of actions, and provide different physiologic effects. Institutions require expert teams to safely implant and manage these devices. This article reviews the mechanism of action, physiologic effects, and data as they relate to the utilization of these devices.

Right ventricular failure after left ventricular assist device implantation: a review of the literature

Right ventricular failure (RVF) following left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation remains a major complication which may significantly impair patient outcome. The genesis of RVF is, however, multifactorial, and the mechanisms underlying such a condition have not been fully elucidated, making its prevention challenging and the course not always predictable. Although preoperative risks factors can be associated with RV impairment, the physiologic changes after the LV support, can still hamper the function of the RV. Current medical treatment options are limited and sometimes, patients with a severe post-LVAD RVF may be unresponsive to pharmacological therapy and require more aggressive treatment, such as temporary RV support. We retrieved 11 publications which we assessed and divided in groups based on the RV support [extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), right ventricular assist device (RVAD), TandemHeart with ProtekDuo cannula]. The current review comprehensively summarizes the main studies of the literature with particular attention to the RV physiology and its changes after the LVAD implantation, the predictors and prognostic score as well as the different modalities of temporary mechanical cardio-circulatory support, and its effects on patient prognosis for RVF in such a setting. In addition, it provides a decision making of the pre-, intra and post-operative management in high- and moderate- risk patients.

Procedural sedation and analgesia for percutaneous high-tech cardiac procedures

The interest in percutaneous high-tech cardiac procedures has increased in recent years together with its safety and efficacy. In fragile patients, procedural sedation and analgesia are used to perform most of the procedures. General anesthesia remains the technique of choice during the team learning curve and might be required in selected patients or in emergent situations. Despite the high costs of percutaneous high-tech cardiac procedures, the decrease in length of hospital stays, rate of intensive care admission and complications, balance the increase in devices costs. In fragile patients who undergo percutaneous high tech cardiac procedures, the primary role of the anesthesiologist is to prevent the need for postprocedural intensive care unit and complications rate. Starting from the experience of a large university third level hospital we identified the eight most commonly performed contemporary percutaneous high tech cardiac procedures (ventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation ablation, protected percutaneous coronary intervention, transcatheter aortic valve implantation, MitraClip® (Abbott Laboratories; Abbott Park, IL, USA), percutaneous patent foramen ovale closure, left atrial appendage closure, and dysfunctional lead extraction), discuss the role of procedural sedation and analgesia in this setting, and explore future perspectives.

Pulmonary artery cannulation to enhance extracorporeal membrane oxygenation management in acute cardiac failure

OBJECTIVES

Pulmonary artery (PA) cannulation during peripheral venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been shown to be effective either for indirect left ventricular (LV) unloading or to allow right ventricular (RV) bypass with associated gas-exchange support in case of acute RV with respiratory failure. This case series reports the results of such peculiar ECMO configurations with PA cannulation in different clinical conditions.

METHODS

All consecutive patients receiving PA cannulation (direct or percutaneous) from January 2015 to September 2018 in 3 institutions were retrospectively reviewed. Isolated LV unloading or RV support, as well as dynamic support including initial drainage followed by perfusion through the PA cannula, was used as part of the ECMO configuration according to the type of patient and the patient's haemodynamic/functional needs.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients (8 men, age range 45-73 years, EuroSCORE log range 14.45-91.60%) affected by acute LV, RV or biventricular failure of various aetiologies, were supported by this ECMO mode. Percutaneous PA cannulation was performed in 10 patients and direct PA cannulation, in 5 cases. Dynamic ECMO management (initially draining and then perfusing through the PA cannula) was carried out in 6 patients. Mean ECMO duration was 9.1 days (range 6-17 days). One patient exhibited pericardial fluid during the implant of a PA cannula (no lesion found when the chest was opened), and weaning from temporary circulatory support was achieved in 14 patients (1 who received a transplant). Three patients (20%) died in-hospital, and 12 patients were successfully discharged without major complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Effective indirect LV unloading in peripheral venoarterial ECMO as well as isolated RV support can be achieved by PA cannulation. Such an ECMO configuration may allow the counteraction of common venoarterial ECMO shortcomings or allow dynamic/adjustable management of ECMO according to specific ventricular dysfunction and haemodynamic needs. Percutaneous PA cannulation was shown to be safe and feasible without major complications. Additional investigation is needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of such an ECMO configuration and management in a larger patient population.

Multidisciplinary Code Shock Team in Cardiogenic Shock: A Canadian Centre Experience

Background

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is associated with high mortality. We report on a “Shock Team” approach of combined interdisciplinary expertise for decision making, expedited assessment, and treatment.

Methods

We reviewed 100 patients admitted in CS over 52 months. Patients managed under a Code Shock Team protocol (n = 64, treatment) from 2016 to 2019 were compared with standard care (n = 36, control) from 2015 to 2016. The cohort was predominantly male (78% treatment, 67% control) with a median age of 55 years (interquartile range [IQR], 43-64) for treatment vs 64 years (IQR, 48-69) for control (P = 0.01). New heart failure was more common in the treatment group: 61% vs 36%, P = 0.02. Acute myocardial infarction comprised 13% of patients in CS. There were no significant differences between treatment and control in markers of clinical acuity, including median left ventricular ejection fraction (18% vs 20%), prevalence of moderate-severe right ventricular dysfunction (64% vs 56%), median peak serum lactate (5.3 vs 4.7 mmol/L), acute kidney injury (70% vs 75%), or acute liver injury (50% vs 31%). Inotropes, dialysis, and invasive ventilation were required in 92%, 33%, and 66% of patients, respectively. Temporary mechanical circulatory support was used in 45% of treatment and 28% of control patients (P = 0.08). There were no significant differences in median hospital length of stay (17.5 days), 30-day survival (71%), or survival to hospital discharge (66%). Over 240 days (IQR, 14,847) of median follow-up, survival was 67% for treatment vs 42% for control (hazard ratio, 0.53; 95% confidence interval, 0.28-0.99; P = 0.03).

Conclusion

A multidisciplinary Code Shock Team approach for CS is feasible and may be associated with improved long-term survival.

Controversies in the Postoperative Management of the Critically Ill Heart Transplant Patient

Heart transplant recipients are susceptible to a number of complications in the immediate postoperative period. Despite advances in surgical techniques, mechanical circulatory support (MCS), and immunosuppression, evidence supporting optimal management strategies of the critically ill transplant patient is lacking on many fronts. This review identifies some of these controversies with the aim of stimulating further discussion and development into these gray areas.

Percutaneous Mechanical Circulation Support Combined with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (oxyRVAD) in Secondary Right Heart Failure

Right heart failure (RHF) because of pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a frequently encountered clinical problem with high mortality. The last resort, if pharmacological therapy fails, is mechanical circulatory support. There is a lack of percutaneous systems to support the right ventricle (RV). Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is widely used as a bailout in acute RHF in non-left ventricular assist device patients. Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation does not unload the left ventricle and may cause failure of the left ventricle if used for a longer period of time. We report the long-term use of an ECMO-based percutaneous right ventricular assist system (oxyRVAD) capable to deliver up to 6 L/min of blood flow with a returning cannula placed in the main pulmonary artery used in RHF originating from PH with poor oxygenation. We present a series of four patients on oxyRVAD (mean treatment duration 15 ± 7.6 days). Patients benefited from the system clinically; however, two patients eventually died while on oxyRVAD. Nevertheless, we provide a proof-of-concept of this system in PH patients, which is feasible and might provide a useful "bridge-to-recovery" or "bridge-to-transplant" option in the management of patients with severe RHF because of PH.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support for right ventricular failure after left ventricular assist device implantation

OBJECTIVES

Right ventricular (RV) failure complicating left ventricular assist device implantation is associated with increased mortality. Despite a lack of supporting evidence, venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support is increasingly being used as an alternative to traditional temporary RV support. We report our institutional experience with ECMO-facilitated RV support after left ventricular assist device implantation.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the concept of temporary ECMO support for perioperative RV failure in 32 consecutive left ventricular assist device (mean age 52 ± 14 years; male 84.4%; ischaemic cardiomyopathy 40.6%; INTERMACS Level I 71.8%; INTERMACS Level II 6.3%; INTERMACS Level III 12.5%; INTERMACS Level IV-VII 9.4%; HeartWare ventricular assist device 75%; HeartMate II: 25%) from May 2009 to April 2014. The study end points were RV recovery during ECMO support, mortality and causes of death.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine (90.6%) patients were successfully weaned from ECMO support after RV recovery. Three (9.4%) patients expired during ECMO support. ECMO support improved RV function and haemodynamic parameters (central venous pressure 13 mmHg vs 10 mmHg, P < 0.01; mean pulmonary artery pressure 28 mmHg vs 21 mmHg, P < 0.01; cardiac output 5.1 l/min vs 5.9 l/min, P = 0.09) over a median period of 3 (range 1-15) days. Thirty-day and in-hospital mortality were 18.8% and 25%, respectively. One-year survival was 75%, causes of death were multiorgan dysfunction syndrome (50%), sepsis (25%), haemorrhagic stroke (12.5%) and ischaemic stroke (12.5%). Causes of death during ECMO support were ischaemic stroke, sepsis and multiorgan dysfunction syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

Temporary ECMO-facilitated RV support is associated with good long-term outcomes and high rates of RV recovery.

Temporary assist device support for the right ventricle: pre-implant and post-implant challenges

Severe right ventricular (RV) failure is more likely reversible than similar magnitudes of left ventricular (LV) failure and, because reversal of both adaptive remodeling and impaired contractility require most often only short periods of support, the use of temporary RV assist devices (t-RVADs) can be a life-saving therapy option for many patients. Although increased experience with t-RVADs and progresses made in the development of safer devices with lower risk for complications has improved both recovery rate of RV function and patient survival, the mortality of t-RVAD recipients can still be high but it depends mainly on the primary cause of RV failure (RVF), the severity of end-organ dysfunction, and the timing of RVAD implantation, and much less on adverse events and complications related to RVAD implantation, support, or removal. Reduced survival of RVAD recipients should therefore not discourage appropriate application of RVADs because their underuse further reduces the chances for RV recovery and patient survival. The article reviews and discusses the challenges related to the pre-implant and post-implant decision-making processes aiming to get best possible therapeutic results. Special attention is focused on pre-implant RV assessment and prediction of RV improvement during mechanical unloading, patient selection for t-RVAD therapy, assessment of unloading-promoted RV recovery, and prediction of its stability after RVAD removal. Particular consideration is also given to prediction of RVF after LVAD implantation which is usually hampered by the complex interactions between the different risk factors related indirectly or directly to the RV potential for reverse remodeling and functional recovery.

Comparison of Percutaneous and Surgical Right Ventricular Assist Device Support After Durable Left Ventricular Assist Device Insertion

BACKGROUND

Early right ventricular (RV) failure after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation increases morbidity and mortality. Percutaneous right ventricular assist device (pRVAD) support is an alternative to more invasive surgical RVAD (sRVAD).

METHODS AND RESULTS

We retrospectively reviewed patients receiving isolated pRVAD or sRVAD after durable LVAD at our center in the years 2007-2018. Hemodynamic parameters before and after implantation and survival outcomes were compared among groups. Nineteen patients received pRVAD and 21 sRVAD. Hemodynamic parameters improved immediately with the use of pRVAD; central venous pressure decreased (from 15.9 ± 2.4 to 12.3 ± 3.2 mm Hg; P<.001) and cardiac index increased (from 2.4 ± 0.5 to 3.5 ± 0.8 L·min^-1·m^-2; P<.001). These were sustained after device removal and were similar to those with the use of sRVAD. Patients with pRVAD required fewer blood transfusions and mechanically ventilated days than those with sRVAD. Among survivors, intensive care unit and hospital days were fewer with the use of pRVAD: 21 (16-27) versus 34 (27-46) ICU days (P = .01); 43.5 (30-66) versus 91 (62-111) hospital days (P = .03). There was no significant difference in 30-day mortality with the use of pRVAD compared with sRVAD (21.1% vs 42.9%; P = .14), but there was a trend toward a higher rate of discharge free from hemodialysis (73.7% vs 47.6%; P = .09).

CONCLUSIONS

Novel pRVAD systems for RV failure provide hemodynamic benefits similar to sRVAD, are associated with less morbidity, and should be considered as an alternative to sRVAD.

Concept, Evaluation, and Future Perspectives of PERKAT® RV-A Novel Right Ventricular Assist Device

Right heart failure (RHF) is a life-threatening condition. Mechanical right heart support offers an option for critically ill patients. The PERKAT® RV device is designed for percutaneous implantation in acute RHF. It consists of a nitinol chamber covered by foils containing inflow valves. An outlet tube is attached to its distal tip. Using an 18F sheath, it is implanted in the inferior vena cava while the tube bypasses the right heart with its tip in the pulmonary trunk. Then, an IABP balloon is inserted in the pump chamber. Balloon deflation generates blood inflow into the chamber; during inflation, blood is pumped into the pulmonary arteries. The device is capable of achieving flow rates of up to 3.5 l/min under in vitro conditions. In vivo, we were able to increase cardiac output by 59% in a sheep model of acute pulmonary embolism. Based on this, our further research will focus on first-in-human implants.

Evaluation and Management of Right-Sided Heart Failure: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Background and Purpose:

The diverse causes of right-sided heart failure (RHF) include, among others, primary cardiomyopathies with right ventricular (RV) involvement, RV ischemia and infarction, volume loading caused by cardiac lesions associated with congenital heart disease and valvular pathologies, and pressure loading resulting from pulmonic stenosis or pulmonary hypertension from a variety of causes, including left-sided heart disease. Progressive RV dysfunction in these disease states is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this scientific statement is to provide guidance on the assessment and management of RHF.

Methods:

The writing group used systematic literature reviews, published translational and clinical studies, clinical practice guidelines, and expert opinion/statements to summarize existing evidence and to identify areas of inadequacy requiring future research. The panel reviewed the most relevant adult medical literature excluding routine laboratory tests using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science through September 2017. The document is organized and classified according to the American Heart Association to provide specific suggestions, considerations, or reference to contemporary clinical practice recommendations.

Results:

Chronic RHF is associated with decreased exercise tolerance, poor functional capacity, decreased cardiac output and progressive end-organ damage (caused by a combination of end-organ venous congestion and underperfusion), and cachexia resulting from poor absorption of nutrients, as well as a systemic proinflammatory state. It is the principal cause of death in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. Similarly, acute RHF is associated with hemodynamic instability and is the primary cause of death in patients presenting with massive pulmonary embolism, RV myocardial infarction, and postcardiotomy shock associated with cardiac surgery. Functional assessment of the right side of the heart can be hindered by its complex geometry. Multiple hemodynamic and biochemical markers are associated with worsening RHF and can serve to guide clinical assessment and therapeutic decision making. Pharmacological and mechanical interventions targeting isolated acute and chronic RHF have not been well investigated. Specific therapies promoting stabilization and recovery of RV function are lacking.

Conclusions:

RHF is a complex syndrome including diverse causes, pathways, and pathological processes. In this scientific statement, we review the causes and epidemiology of RV dysfunction and the pathophysiology of acute and chronic RHF and provide guidance for the management of the associated conditions leading to and caused by RHF.

Diagnostic workup, etiologies and management of acute right ventricle failure : A state-of-the-art paper

INTRODUCTION

This is a state-of-the-art article of the diagnostic process, etiologies and management of acute right ventricular (RV) failure in critically ill patients. It is based on a large review of previously published articles in the field, as well as the expertise of the authors.

RESULTS

The authors propose the ten key points and directions for future research in the field. RV failure (RVF) is frequent in the ICU, magnified by the frequent need for positive pressure ventilation. While no universal definition of RVF is accepted, we propose that RVF may be defined as a state in which the right ventricle is unable to meet the demands for blood flow without excessive use of the Frank-Starling mechanism (i.e. increase in stroke volume associated with increased preload). Both echocardiography and hemodynamic monitoring play a central role in the evaluation of RVF in the ICU. Management of RVF includes treatment of the causes, respiratory optimization and hemodynamic support. The administration of fluids is potentially deleterious and unlikely to lead to improvement in cardiac output in the majority of cases. Vasopressors are needed in the setting of shock to restore the systemic pressure and avoid RV ischemia; inotropic drug or inodilator therapies may also be needed. In the most severe cases, recent mechanical circulatory support devices are proposed to unload the RV and improve organ perfusion CONCLUSION: RV function evaluation is key in the critically-ill patients for hemodynamic management, as fluid optimization, vasopressor strategy and respiratory support. RV failure may be diagnosed by the association of different devices and parameters, while echocardiography is crucial.

PERKAT RV: first in vivo data of a novel right heart assist device

AIMS

Mechanical right ventricular (RV) support offers a treatment option for critically ill patients with RV failure (RVF). We developed an assist device for rapid percutaneous implantation. The aim of the present study was to investigate the implantation procedure, haemodynamic performance and possible side effects of the novel right ventricular assist device - PERKAT RV - in an animal model.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The PERkutane KATheterpumptechnologie RV (PERKAT RV) device consists of a nitinol chamber covered by foil containing inflow valves. An outlet tube is attached to its distal part. The system is designed for 18 Fr percutaneous implantation. The chamber is unfolded in the inferior vena cava while the outlet tube bypasses the right heart with the tip in the pulmonary trunk. An IABP balloon is placed inside. Balloon deflation generates blood flow into the chamber; during inflation, blood is guided into the pulmonary arteries. Acute RVF was induced by venous injection of Sephadex in seven sheep for evaluation of the device. The PERKAT RV was able to improve haemodynamics immediately generating a median increase in cardiac output of 59%. Longer pump support was evaluated in a second study. Four sheep were supported for eight hours without any problems.

CONCLUSIONS

The percutaneous implantation and explantation of the PERKAT RV device was possible in the designed way. The sheep studies proved beneficial haemodynamic effects in acute RVF. The system offers easy and safe treatment in acute RVF.

4-Valve Heart Disease and Right Heart Failure

Carcinoid heart disease is a rare form of heart disease due to secretion of vasoactive compounds, including serotonin, from gastrointestinal tumors. This E-challenge examines the case of a patient with advanced carcinoid heart disease who presented to the operating room (OR) for a tricuspid valve replacement. Once the patient was in the OR, intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography was used to discover a patent foramen ovale and involvement of all 4 valves with regurgitant lesions. The patient underwent tricuspid valve replacement, pulmonic valve replacement, right ventricular outflow tract reconstruction, and patent foramen closure in the OR and experienced subsequent fulminant right heart failure. Mechanical circulatory support was required to separate the patient from cardiopulmonary bypass, which was first attempted with an intra-aortic balloon pump and subsequently achieved with implantation of a right ventricular assist device. Multiple reports of acute right heart failure are available in the literature; however, this case helps illustrate several important considerations for the anesthesiologist. The effects of chronic circulating vasoactive compounds on the heart valves are well documented; however, it is likely that advanced carcinoid heart disease also will trigger pre-existing myocardial dysfunction, which may be underappreciated. Identifying patients who are at high risk for intraoperative right heart failure and considering what constitutes an adequate preoperative assessment of right heart function aid in preparing for OR management. In addition, reviewing the potential options for managing these patients when the traditional therapies are inadequate, including mechanical support and extracorporeal circulation, is a useful exercise in preparation. This case also highlights the contributions of intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography in the diagnosis and management of carcinoid heart disease, the need for additional preoperative optimization of these patients, and the management and potential complications of mechanical support.

Preliminary Design and Testing of a Cavo-Arterial Pump Utilizing Axial Magnetic Couplings

Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction has limited the effectiveness of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) therapy in some heart failure (HF) patients. Intravascular pumps can provide adequate circulatory support without the need for extensive operations. The development of an intravascular right ventricular assist device (RVAD), called the cavo-arterial pump (CAP), is presented. Two prototypes of the CAP were developed to demonstrate the feasibility of providing adequate pulmonary support and to demonstrate the feasibility of using axial magnetic couplings for contactless torque transmission from the motor shaft to the pump impeller. The CAP utilizing a direct drive mechanism produced a maximum pressure of 100 mm Hg and a maximum flow of 2.25 L/min when operated at 24 kRPM. When a magnetic drive mechanism was used, the overall flowrate decreased due to a loss in torque transmission. The magnetic drive CAP was able to operate up to 18.5 kRPM and produce a maximum flowrate of 1.35 L/min and a maximum pressure difference of 40 mm Hg. These results demonstrate that the CAP produces sufficient output for partial circulatory support of the pulmonary circulation, and that axial magnetic couplings can help to eliminate the sealing system needed to isolate the miniature motor and bearings from blood contact.

Review of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation and Dialysis-Based Liver Support Devices for the Use of Nephrologists

Acute kidney injury in the intensive care unit (ICU) is a manifestation of an underlying severe illness that commonly involves other organ systems. Pulmonary, cardiac, and hepatic failures are the most prevalent. This article provides a simplified review of the technical aspects of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary and liver support devices used in the adult ICU patient, as well as a summary of the most relevant and up-to-date clinical evidence that supports their use.

Acute mechanical circulatory support for cardiogenic shock: the "door to support" time

Cardiogenic shock (CS) remains a major cause of in-hospital mortality in the setting of acute myocardial infarction. CS begins as a hemodynamic problem with impaired cardiac output leading to reduced systemic perfusion, increased residual volume within the left and right ventricles, and increased cardiac filling pressures. A critical step towards the development of future algorithms is a clear understanding of the treatment objectives for CS. In this review, we introduce the "door to support" time as an emerging target of therapy to improve outcomes associated with CS, define four key treatment objectives in the management of CS, discuss the importance of early hemodynamic assessment and appropriate selection of acute mechanical circulatory support (AMCS) devices for CS, and introduce a classification scheme that identifies subtypes of CS based on cardiac filling pressures.

The role of acute circulatory support in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock

In the setting of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) complicated by cardiogenic shock, three primary treatment objectives include providing circulatory support, ventricular unloading, and restoring myocardial perfusion. In addition to primary percutaneous coronary intervention, each of these three objectives can be achieved with appropriate use of an acute mechanical circulatory support (AMCS) pump. Over the past decade, utilization of percutaneously-delivered AMCS devices including the Impella axial-flow catheter, TandemHeart left atrial-to-femoral artery bypass system, and veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) has grown exponentially. In this review, we will discuss the hemodynamic impact of each AMCS device and clinical data surrounding their use in the setting of STEMI complicated by cardiogenic shock.