2019 EACTS Expert Consensus on long-term mechanical circulatory support

An ISHLT consensus statement on strategies to prevent and manage hemocompatibility related adverse events in patients with a durable, continuous-flow ventricular assist device

Life expectancy of patients with a durable, continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (CF-LVAD) continues to increase. Despite significant improvements in the delivery of care for patients with these devices, hemocompatability-related adverse events (HRAEs) are still a concern and contribute to significant morbility and mortality when they occur. As such, dissemination of current best evidence and practices is of critical importance. This ISHLT Consensus Statement is a summative assessment of the current literature on prevention and management of HRAEs through optimal management of oral anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications, parenteral anticoagulant medications, management of patients at high risk for HRAEs and those experiencing thrombotic or bleeding events, and device management outside of antithrombotic medications. This document is intended to assist clinicians caring for patients with a CF-LVAD provide the best care possible with respect to prevention and management of these events.

A case of truncus arteriosus with severe heart failure and pulmonary stenosis: bridge to transplant candidacy with surgical correction and a ventricular-assist device

Ventricular-assist device therapy for small patients with congenital heart disease is challenging due to its complex anatomy and hemodynamics. We describe a 3-year-old patient with heart failure with truncus arteriosus in the palliative stage. The patient underwent palliative right ventricular outflow tract reconstruction following bilateral pulmonary artery banding. At 6 months of age, the patient developed severe truncal valve regurgitation and left ventricular dysfunction. Emergent truncal valve replacement with a mechanical valve was performed, but left ventricular dysfunction persisted. At 3 years of age, the patient developed acute progression of heart failure triggered by influenza infection. The patient was intubated and transferred to our center to determine the indication for heart transplantation. On the second day after admission, signs of multiorgan failure appeared. Emergent ventricular-assist device implantation for both ventricles was performed with truncal valve closure, ventricular septal defect closure, atrial septal defect closure, and re-right ventricular outflow tract reconstruction. The right ventricular-assist device was successfully removed on the seventh postoperative day. Due to the small pulmonary arteries, severe pulmonary stenosis persisted after ventricular-assist device implantation, but it gradually improved with multiple pulmonary angioplasties. The patient was registered in the Japanese organ transplant network and is awaiting a donor organ in a stable condition.

Fibrinolytic Agents in Thromboembolic Diseases: Historical Perspectives and Approved Indications

Fibrinolytic agents catalyze the conversion of the inactive proenzyme plasminogen into the active protease plasmin, degrading fibrin within the thrombus and recanalizing occluded vessels. The history of these medications dates to the discovery of the first fibrinolytic compound, streptokinase, from bacterial cultures in 1933. Over time, researchers identified two other plasminogen activators in human samples, namely urokinase and tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). Subsequently, tPA was cloned using recombinant DNA methods to produce alteplase. Several additional derivatives of tPA, such as tenecteplase and reteplase, were developed to extend the plasma half-life of tPA. Over the past decades, fibrinolytic medications have been widely used to manage patients with venous and arterial thromboembolic events. Currently, alteplase is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in patients with pulmonary embolism with hemodynamic compromise, ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), acute ischemic stroke, and central venous access device occlusion. Reteplase and tenecteplase have also received FDA approval for treating patients with STEMI. This review provides an overview of the historical background related to fibrinolytic agents and briefly summarizes their approved indications across various thromboembolic diseases.

Right Ventricular Assist Device Placement During Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation Is Associated With Improved Survival

Right ventricular failure (RVF) is a significant cause of mortality in patients undergoing left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. Although right ventricular assist devices (RVADs) can treat RVF in the perioperative LVAD period, liberal employment before RVF is not well established. We therefore compared the survival outcomes between proactive RVAD placement at the time of LVAD implantation with a bailout strategy in patients with RVF. Retrospectively, 75 adult patients who underwent durable LVAD implantation at our institution and had an RVAD placed proactively before LVAD implantation or as a bailout strategy postoperatively due to hemodynamically unstable RVF were evaluated. Patients treated with a proactive RVAD strategy had lower Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support (INTERMACS) and a higher proportion of these required temporary mechanical circulatory support (MCS) preoperatively. Preoperative hemodynamic profiling showed a low pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi) score of 1.8 ± 1.4 and 1.6 ± 0.94 ( p = 0.42) in the bailout RVAD and proactive RVAD groups, respectively. Survival at 3, 6, and 12 months post-LVAD implantation was statistically significantly higher in patients who received a proactive RVAD. Thus, proactive RVAD implantation is associated with short- and medium-term survival benefits compared to a bailout strategy in RVF patients undergoing LVAD placement.

Evaluation of Intraoperative Right Ventricular Myocardial Work Indices in Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation: A Case Report

Right ventricular myocardial work is an echocardiographic technique yielding significant insights into cardiac mechanics, energetics, and efficiency. Combining right ventricular myocardial strain with loading conditions correlates with invasively measured myocardial work and myocardial oxygen consumption. This method has not yet been described intraoperatively by transesophageal echocardiography. We describe this technique during a left ventricular assist device implantation. This case demonstrates that right ventricular myocardial work indices can be monitored intraoperatively and might assist decisions during left ventricular assist device implantation.

Antithrombotic therapy for durable left ventricular assist devices: protocol for a living systematic review with indirect comparison/network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have emerged as a successful treatment option for patients with end-stage heart failure. Compared with the best medical therapy, LVADs improve survival and enhance functional capacity and quality of life. However, two major complications compromise this patient population's outcomes: thrombosis and bleeding. Despite technological innovations and better hemocompatibility, these devices alter the rheology, triggering the coagulation cascade and, therefore, require antithrombotic therapy. Anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapies represent the current standard of care. Still, inconsistency in the literature exists, especially whether antiplatelet therapy is required, whether direct oral anticoagulants can replace vitamin K antagonists and even whether phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors with their antithrombotic effects could be added to the regimen of anticoagulation.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We will perform a living systematic review with network meta-analysis and indirect comparison between current antithrombotic therapies, which have and have not been directly compared within clinical trials and observational studies. We will systematically search the following electronic sources: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE) and Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE). We will exclusively examine studies published in English from 2016 to the present. Studies conducted before 2016 will be omitted since our primary focus is evaluating continuous flow devices. Two independent reviewers will assess the articles by title, abstract and full text; any disagreement will be resolved through discussion, and a third reviewer will be involved if necessary. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool will be used to assess the risk of bias. We will then conduct a pairwise meta-analysis; if the assumption of transitivity is satisfied, we will proceed with network meta-analysis using Bayesian methodology.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Formal ethical approval is not required as no primary data are collected. This systematic review and network meta-analysis will delineate the risks of stroke, thromboembolic events, pump thrombosis, gastrointestinal bleeding and mortality in patients equipped with LVADs who are subjected to various antithrombotic regimens. The findings will be disseminated via a peer-reviewed publication and presented at conference meetings. This will enhance clinical practice and guide future research on anticoagulation strategies within this distinct patient cohort.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42023465288.

Backwash Maneuver for HeartMate3 Inflow Thrombosis: Experience From Two Cases

The ingested pump inflow thrombus, although rare, is a potentially life-threatening complication of left ventricular assist devices. During the last years, the backwash maneuver is considered an alternative method to pump replacement for the treatment of inflow thrombosis, showing high success rate in selected patients with HeartWare HVAD devices. However, that was not the case in our present report, in which we detail the application of this method in two HeartMate3 patients with ingested pump inflow thrombus. Washing out the thrombus was not feasible in either case, possibly due to mechanical aspects of the inflow part of the HeartMate3 pump. As a result, we remain skeptical regarding the use of the method in HeartMate3 patients with inflow thrombosis.

Right heart failure with left ventricular assist devices: Preoperative, perioperative and postoperative management strategies. A clinical consensus statement of the Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the ESC

Right heart failure (RHF) following implantation of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is a common and potentially serious condition with a wide spectrum of clinical presentations with an unfavourable effect on patient outcomes. Clinical scores that predict the occurrence of right ventricular (RV) failure have included multiple clinical, biochemical, imaging and haemodynamic parameters. However, unless the right ventricle is overtly dysfunctional with end-organ involvement, prediction of RHF post-LVAD implantation is, in most cases, difficult and inaccurate. For these reasons optimization of RV function in every patient is a reasonable practice aiming at preparing the right ventricle for a new and challenging haemodynamic environment after LVAD implantation. To this end, the institution of diuretics, inotropes and even temporary mechanical circulatory support may improve RV function, thereby preparing it for a better adaptation post-LVAD implantation. Furthermore, meticulous management of patients during the perioperative and immediate postoperative period should facilitate identification of RV failure refractory to medication. When RHF occurs late during chronic LVAD support, this is associated with worse long-term outcomes. Careful monitoring of RV function and characterization of the origination deficit should therefore continue throughout the patient's entire follow-up. Despite the useful information provided by the echocardiogram with respect to RV function, right heart catheterization frequently offers additional support for the assessment and optimization of RV function in LVAD-supported patients. In any patient candidate for LVAD therapy, evaluation and treatment of RV function and failure should be assessed in a multidimensional and multidisciplinary manner.

Pressure-dimension index and left ventricular sphericity index following HeartMate II and HeartMate 3 implantation

AIMS

This study aimed to compare the changes in the left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV) geometry and performance after the implantation of HeartMate II (HMII) and HeartMate 3 (HM3). In addition, we investigated whether the echocardiographic parameters LV sphericity index (LVSI) and the novel pressure-dimension index (PDI) can predict post-operative right ventricular failure (RVF).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Between 2012 and 2020, 46 patients [HMII (n = 22) and HM3 (n = 24)] met the study's criteria and had echocardiography tests pre-operatively, 6 and 12 months post-operatively. The LVSI and PDI were calculated together with the standard LV and RV echocardiographic parameters. The mean follow-up was 24 ± 7 months. In both groups, the LV end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) significantly decreased 12 months post-operatively compared with the pre-operative values (HMII: 6.4 ± 1.4 cm vs. 5.7 ± 0.9 cm, P = 0.040; HM3: 6.7 ± 1.3 cm vs. 5.5 ± 0.9 cm, P < 0.01, respectively). RV function 12 months post-operatively was better in the HM3 group than in the HMII group, as indicated by a significantly higher RV fractional area change (RVFAC) in the HM3 group than in the HMII group 12 months post-operatively (35 ± 12% vs. 26 ± 16%, P = 0.039), significantly higher tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) in the HM3 group 12 months post-operatively compared with the HMII group (13.9 ± 1.9 mm vs. 12.0 ± 2.1 mm, P = 0.002), and the tissue Doppler estimated tricuspid annular systolic velocity (TASV) was also significantly higher in the HM3 group 12 months post-operatively compared with the HMII group (11.5 ± 2.7 mm/s vs. 9.9 ± 1.5 mm/s, P = 0.020). The LVSI value was significantly higher 12 months post-operatively in the HMII group than in the HM3 group (1.2 ± 0.4 vs. 0.8 ± 0.2, P = 0.001, respectively), indicating worse geometric changes. The PDI decreased 12 months post-operatively in the HM3-group compared with the baseline (3.4 ± 1.4 mmHg/cm2 vs. 2.0 ± 0.8 mmHg/cm2, P < 0.001). In the univariate and multivariate analyses, only the pre-operative PDI was a predictor of post-operative RVF [odds ratio: 3.84 (95% CI: 1.53-18.16, P = 0.022)]. The area under the curve for pre-operative PDI was 0.912. The 2 year survival was significantly better in the HM3 group (log-rank, P = 0.042).

CONCLUSIONS

The design of HM3 offered better geometrical preservation of the LV and enabled normal PDI values, leading to improved RV function, as indicated by better RVFAC, TAPSE, and TASV values. The use of pre-operative PDI as an additional tool for established risk scores might offer a better pre-operative predictor of RVF.

HeartMate 3 implantation with an emphasis on the biventricular configuration

OBJECTIVES

Right ventricular failure following implantation of a durable left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is a major driver of mortality. Reported survival following biventricular (BiVAD) or total artificial heart (TAH) implantation remains substantially inferior to LVAD alone. We report our outcomes with LVAD and BiVAD HeartMate 3 (HM3).

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing implantation of an HM3 LVAD between November 2014 and December 2021, at The Alfred, Australia were included in the study. Comparison was made between the BiVAD and LVAD alone groups.

RESULTS

A total of 86 patients, 65 patients with LVAD alone and 21 in a BiVAD configuration underwent implantation. The median age of the LVAD and BiVAD groups was 56 years (Interquartile range 46-62) and 49 years (Interquartile range 37-55), respectively. By 4 years after implantation, 54% of LVAD patients and 43% of BiVAD patients had undergone cardiac transplantation. The incidence of stroke in the entire experience was 3.5% and pump thrombosis 5% (all in the RVAD). There were 14 deaths in the LVAD group and 1 in the BiVAD group. The actuarial survival for LVAD patients at 1 year was 85% and BiVAD patients at 1 year was 95%.

CONCLUSIONS

The application of HM 3 BiVAD support in selected patients appears to offer a satisfactory solution to patients requiring biventricular support.

Apixaban in bridge to transplant and destination LVAD - rationale and study design: the ApixiVAD trial

AIMS

Use of novel anticoagulation in mechanical circulatory support is controversial. We report the rationale and design of the ApixiVad pilot trial, a pilot study testing the safety of apixaban as an anticoagulant in patients bridged to transplant (BTT) or for destination (DT) with Heartmate 3 (HM3) left ventricular assist device (LVAD).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Apixaban has been used in small non-randomized cohorts in LVAD patients and shown to be effective in ex vivo studies. The ApixiVAD study examines apixaban use in a multicentre, international, open-label, randomized, controlled trial aiming to include 50 BTT or DT HM3 patients with a 1:1 randomization ratio. This event-driven study has a maximum follow-up period of 24 months with interim analysis at 6 months. The primary outcome is death, thromboembolic events and major bleeding, including operative bleeding and immediate transplant outcomes. The secondary outcome focuses on patients' quality of life related to anticoagulation. This investigator-driven pilot study is not powered to determine the non-inferiority of apixaban. An increase in primary outcome in the apixaban group of 20% will be considered a signal of harm.

CONCLUSIONS

A positive outcome in the ApixiVAD study would provide the basis for future, larger, pivotal anticoagulation trials in LVAD patients.

A multicenter evaluation of external outflow graft obstruction with a fully magnetically levitated left ventricular assist device

BACKGROUND

The HeartMate 3 (HM 3; Abbott) left ventricular assist device (LVAD) has improved hemocompatibility-related adverse outcomes. In sporadic cases, external compression of the outflow graft causing obstruction (eOGO) can result from substance accumulation between the outflow graft and its bend relief. We sought to evaluate the prevalence, course, and clinical implications of eOGO in an international study.

METHODS

A multicenter retrospective analysis of HM 3 LVADs implanted between November 2014 and April 2021 (n = 2108) was conducted across 17 cardiac centers in 8 countries. We defined eOGO as obstruction >25% in the cross-sectional area in imaging (percutaneous angiography, computed tomography, or intravascular ultrasound). The prevalence and annual incidence were calculated. Serious adverse events and outcomes (death, transplantation, or device exchange) were analyzed for eOGO cases.

RESULTS

Of 2108 patients, 62 were diagnosed with eOGO at a median LVAD support duration of 953 (interquartile range, 600-1267) days. The prevalence of eOGO was 3.0% and the incidence at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years of support was 0.6%, 2.8%, 4.0%, 5.2%, and 9.1%, respectively. Of 62 patients, 9 were observed, 27 underwent surgical revision, 15 underwent percutaneous stent implantation, 8 received a heart transplant, and 2 died before intervention. One patient underwent surgical revision and later stent implantation. The mortality with therapeutic intervention was 9/53 (17.0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Although uncommon, HM 3 LVAD-supported patients might develop eOGO with an increasing incidence after 1 year of support. Although engineering efforts to reduce this complication are under way, clinicians must maintain a focus on early detection and remain vigilant.

Anesthetic management for non-cardiac surgery in patients with left ventricular assist devices

With the growing number of patients undergoing left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation and improved survival in this population, more patients with LVADs are presenting for various types of non-cardiac surgery. Therefore, anesthesiologists need to understand the physiology and adequately prepare for the perioperative management of this unique patient population. This review addresses perioperative considerations and intraoperative management for the safe and successful management of patients with an LVAD undergoing non-cardiac surgery. Understanding the basic physiology of preload dependency and afterload sensitivity in these patients is essential. The main considerations include a collaborative preoperative multidisciplinary approach, perioperative care aimed at optimizing the intravascular volume and right ventricular function, and maintaining the afterload within recommended ranges for optimal LVAD function.

Back to the basics: The need for an etiological classification of chronic heart failure

The left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (LVEF), despite its severe limitations, has had an epicentral role in heart failure (HF) classification, management, and risk stratification for decades. The major argument favoring the LVEF based HF classification has been that it defines groups of patients in which treatment is effective. However, this reasoning has recently collapsed, since medical treatment with neurohormonal inhibitors, has proved beneficial in most HF patients regardless of the LVEF. In addition, there has been compelling evidence, that the LVEF provides poor guidance for device treatment of chronic HF (implantation of cardioverter defibrillator, cardiac resynchronization therapy) since sudden cardiac death may occur and cardiac dyssynchronization may be disastrous in all HF patients. The same holds true for LV assist device implantation, in which the LVEF has been used as a surrogate for LV size. In this review article we update the evidence questioning the use of LVEF-based HF classification and argue that guidance of chronic HF treatment should transition to more contemporary concepts. Specifically, we propose an etiologic chronic HF classification predominantly based on epidemiological data, which will be foundational for further higher resolution phenotyping in the emerging era of precision medicine.

Echocardiographic haemodynamic monitoring in the context of HeartMate 3™ therapy: a systematic review

AIMS

While echocardiography remains essential within haemodynamic monitoring of durable mechanical circulatory support, previous echocardiographic guidelines are missing scientific evidence for the novel HeartMate 3™ (HM3) system. Accordingly, this review aims to summarize available echocardiographic evidence including HM3.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This systematic review adhered to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Searches were conducted during August 2023 across PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar using specific echocardiographic terms combined with system identifiers. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) for cohort studies and Critical Appraisal Instrument (PCAI) for cross-sectional studies. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria, of which eight cohort studies and one cross-sectional study. Aortic regurgitation (AR) prevalence at approximately 12 months of support exhibited heterogenicity (33.5% (Δ 33%)) in a limited number of studies (n = 3). Several studies (n = 5) demonstrated an increasing prevalence and severity of AR during HM3 support, generating moderate to high level of evidence. One AR study showed a higher cumulative incidence of death and heart failure (HF) readmission compared with those without significant AR, hazard ratio 3.42 (95% CI 1.48-8.76). A second study showed that a worsening AR group had significantly lower survival-free from HF readmission (59% vs. 89%, P = 0.023) with a hazard ratio of 5.18 (95% CI 1.07-25.0), while a third study did not reveal any differences in cardiac-related hospitalizations in the 12 months follow-up or non-cardiac-related hospitalization. Mitral regurgitation (MR) prevalence at approximately 12 months of support exhibited good consistency 15.0% (Δ 0.8%) in both included studies, which did not reveal any significant pattern of changing prevalence over time. Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) prevalence at approximately 12 months of support exhibited fair consistency 28.5% (Δ 8.3%) in a limited number of studies (n = 2); both studies showed a statistically un-confirmed trend of increased TR prevalence over time. The evidence of general prevalence of right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) was insufficient due to lack of studies.

CONCLUSIONS

There are few methodologically consistent studies with focus on long-term haemodynamic effects. Aortic regurgitation still seems to be a prevalent and potentially significant finding. The available evidence concerning right heart function is limited despite clinical relevance and potential prognostic value. Potential interventricular and haemodynamic interplay are identified as a white field for future research.

The Longest Living Patient Supported With Left Ventricular Assist Device (14 Years)

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) improve survival and reduce symptoms in patients with advanced heart failure; however, the longer-term durability of LVADs remains uncertain especially with older-generation devices. In this case report, we describe the clinical course of a patient who has been successfully treated with the same HeartMate II LVAD for 14 years, the longest published and still ongoing LVAD support with the same originally implanted device.

Durability of Tricuspid Valve Repair in Patients Undergoing Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation

Objectives: Benefits of tricuspid valve repair (TVR) in left ventricular assist device (LVAD) patients have been questioned. High TVR failure rates have been reported. Remaining or recurring TR was found to be a risk factor for right heart failure (RHF). Therefore, we assessed our experience. Methods: Since 12/2010, 195 patients have undergone LVAD implantation in our center. Almost half (n = 94, 48%) received concomitant TVR (LVAD+TVR). These patients were included in our analysis. Echocardiographic and clinical data were assessed. Median follow-up was 2.8 years (7 days-0.6 years). Results were correlated with clinical outcomes. Results: LVAD+TVR patients were 59.8 ± 11.4 years old (89.4% male) and 37.3% were INTERMACS level 1 and 2. Preoperative TR was moderate in 28 and severe in 66 patients. RV function was severely impaired in 61 patients reflected by TAPSE-values of 11.2 ± 2.9 mm (vs. 15.7 ± 3.8 mm in n = 33; p < 0.001). Risk for RHF according to EUROMACS-RHF risk score was high (>4 points) in 60 patients, intermediate (>2-4 points) in 19 and low (0-2 points) in 15. RHF occurred in four patients (4.3%). Mean duration of echocardiographic follow-up was 2.8 ± 2.3 years. None of the patients presented with severe and only five (5.3%) with moderate TR. The vast majority (n = 63) had mild TR, and 26 patients had no/trace TR. Survival at 1, 3 and 5 years was 77.4%, 68.1% and 55.6%, 30-day mortality was 11.7% (n = 11). Heart transplantation was performed in 12 patients (12.8%). Conclusions: Contrary to expectations, concomitant TVR during LVAD implantation may result in excellent repair durability, which appears to be associated with low risk for RHF.

Advanced Heart Failure: Therapeutic Options and Challenges in the Evolving Field of Left Ventricular Assist Devices

Heart Failure is a chronic and progressively deteriorating syndrome that has reached epidemic proportions worldwide. Improved outcomes have been achieved with novel drugs and devices. However, the number of patients refractory to conventional medical therapy is growing. These advanced heart failure patients suffer from severe symptoms and frequent hospitalizations and have a dismal prognosis, with a significant socioeconomic burden in health care systems. Patients in this group may be eligible for advanced heart failure therapies, including heart transplantation and chronic mechanical circulatory support with left ventricular assist devices (LVADs). Heart transplantation remains the treatment of choice for eligible candidates, but the number of transplants worldwide has reached a plateau and is limited by the shortage of donor organs and prolonged wait times. Therefore, LVADs have emerged as an effective and durable form of therapy, and they are currently being used as a bridge to heart transplant, destination lifetime therapy, and cardiac recovery in selected patients. Although this field is evolving rapidly, LVADs are not free of complications, making appropriate patient selection and management by experienced centers imperative for successful therapy. Here, we review current LVAD technology, indications for durable MCS therapy, and strategies for timely referral to advanced heart failure centers before irreversible end-organ abnormalities.

Ventricular Arrhythmias in Left Ventricular Assist Device Patients-Current Diagnostic and Therapeutic Considerations

Left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) are used in the treatment of advanced left ventricular heart failure. LVAD can serve as a bridge to orthotopic heart transplantation or as a destination therapy in cases where orthotopic heart transplantation is contraindicated. Ventricular arrhythmias are frequently observed in patients with LVAD. This problem is further compounded as a result of diagnostic difficulties arising from presently available electrocardiographic methods. Due to artifacts from LVAD-generated electromagnetic fields, it can be challenging to assess the origin of arrhythmias in standard ECG tracings. In this article, we will review and discuss common mechanisms, diagnostics methods, and therapeutic strategies for ventricular arrhythmia treatment, as well as numerous problems we face in LVAD implant patients.

Driveline infection according to driveline positioning in left ventricular assist device implant recipients

We conducted a prospective, open-labeled, clinical trial, with a two-by-two factorial design, of argon cold plasma application and two different types of driveline positioning for the prevention of driveline infection (DLI) in 80 patients with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implant. Here, we present the results of intracorporeal loop positioning (n = 40) versus no intracorporeal loop positioning (n = 40). Patients were followed up for 1 year. According to the Driveline Expert STagINg and carE grading (DESTINE) system, a DLI was considered in case of a stage 2 or higher graded infection. During follow-up, 29 (36%) patients experienced a DLI, 16 in the group with intracorporeal loop positioning and 13 in the group with no intracorporeal loop positioning. Kaplan-Meier estimates of freedom from DLI showed no statistically significant difference between study groups during follow-up (p = 0.33). In detail, 30-day freedom from DLI was for the groups with and without intracorporeal loop positioning 92 and 92%, respectively, and 1-year freedom from DLI was 51 and 62%, respectively. In conclusion, this controlled clinical trial was unable to show a statistically significant difference in freedom from DLI during one year of follow-up in groups with or without intracorporeal loop positioning. However, larger trials have to confirm these results.

[Heart transplantation : Current situation]

Heart transplantation is the gold-standard in the treatment of terminal heart failure. The shortage of donor hearts represents the major obstacle in patient care and necessitates the creation of waiting lists and allocation algorithms. The Transplantation Act regulates donor heart allocation according to the urgency and the prospects of success. Donor hearts can be implanted following the classical biatrial or the modern bicaval valve implantation technique with a slightly lower spectrum of complications. Modern mechanical perfusion systems enable extended transport times. After heart transplantation rejection reactions must be controlled by an individually adjusted immunosuppression to guarantee long-term survival with as few complications as possible.

Impairments identified by comprehensive geriatric assessment in potential candidates for left ventricular assist device and heart transplantation

Background

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of frailty and other impairments in potential left ventricular assist device (LVAD) and heart transplantation (HTx) candidates by performing a preoperative comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) and reviewing the treatment recommendations resulting from the CGA.

Methods and results

This cross-sectional study included 73 patients aged ≥40 years who received a CGA as part of the patient selection procedure for LVAD and HTx. In every patient, a conclusion comprising frailty and other impairments was formulated based on the medical, mental, functional, and social domains and recommendations were made. The mean age was 58 years (range 40-71) and 70 % were male. In 97 % of patients, at least one impairment was identified by the CGA. The most common impairments were polypharmacy, high morbidity burden, reduced renal function, osteopenia, depression, poor quality of life, reduced functionality, (risk of) malnutrition, reduced grip strength and high caregiver burden. A small proportion of the potential LVAD and HTx candidates were frail (7 % according to Fried's frailty criteria, 6 % according to the Edmonton Frail Scale) and 39 % were pre-frail. The domains for which most impairments were found and the domains for which most treatment recommendations were given matched well, with the functional domain as the frontrunner.

Conclusion

This study showed that most of the potential candidates for LVAD or HTx have impairments on at least one domain of the CGA. Impairments and associated risks can contribute to the decision making process for candidacy for LVAD and HTx.

In Search of the Holy Grail of Artificial Hearts: Are We There Yet?

The total artificial heart (TAH) has a long and rich history, being the product of decades of innovation, hard work, and dedication. This review examines the history of the TAH, a device that has revolutionized the treatment of end-stage biventricular heart failure. It reviews the development of the device from early concepts to the current state-of-the-art device, the SynCardia TAH, which has been implanted in over 2,000 patients worldwide. The article also discusses the challenges and successes experienced by researchers, clinicians, and patients throughout the development of TAH devices. Our focus will also be on discussing the hemostatic alterations in patients implanted with TAH and anticoagulation strategies to decrease associated thromboembolic risks. The article concludes with a look at other novel TAH devices and the future of TAH as an increasingly viable treatment for end-stage heart failure.

Pre-Implant Immune Status is Associated with Infection Risk After Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation

Purpose

Infection is the most common complication after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. The immune status of LVAD patients is relevant for the incidence and severity of infection, but it is unknown if there is a predisposing immune status prior to LVAD implantation that contributes to an increased risk for infection in the post-implant period. We analyzed the pre-LVAD immune status in patients with infection within 3 months after LVAD implantation in comparison to infection-free patients.

Patients and Methods

Fifty-four consecutive LVAD patients were included in this study. According to their infectious history in the first 3 months after LVAD implantation, these patients were grouped into an infection (n=23) and an infection-free group (n=31). Pre-LVAD blood samples were obtained for flow cytometric analysis of immunological parameters including B cells, subsets of T, dendritic and natural killer cells. Patient-specific, clinical and laboratory data were recorded.

Results

Blood count analysis prior to LVAD implantation showed comparable counts of erythrocytes (p=0.19), platelets (p=0.33) and leukocytes (p=0.50) between patients with infection and infection-free patients in the post-implant period. Patients with infection in the first 3 months after LVAD implantation had lower concentrations of lymphocytes (p=0.02). Forty percent of the patients with infection showed more often pre-LVAD neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratios (NLR) >7 than patients without infection in the first 3 months after LVAD implantation (14%, p=0.05). Patients with infection already had lower percentages of CD3+ T cells (p=0.03), CD19+ B cells (p<0.01), BDCA2+ pDCs (p=0.03) and BDCA4+ plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs) (p=0.05) prior to LVAD implantation than infection-free patients.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that patients with infection in the early post-implant period showed lower concentrations of lymphocytes, especially of CD3+ T cells and CD19+ B cells, decreased percentages of BDCA2+ and BDCA4+ pDCs, and had more often NLRs >7 indicating moderate-to-severe inflammation. Thus, we identified specific immunological changes pre-LVAD that could help to identify patients at risk for infection in the early post-implant period.

Pulmonary Vascular Resistance to Predict Right Heart Failure in Patients Undergoing Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation

Right heart failure (RHF) is associated with poor outcomes, especially in patients undergoing left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. The aim of this study was to identify predictors of RHF after LVAD implantation. Of 129 consecutive patients (mean age 56 ± 11 years, 89% male) undergoing LVAD implantation, 34 developed RHF. Compared to patients without RHF, those with RHF required longer invasive mechanical ventilation and had longer intensive care unit and hospital stays (p < 0.01). One-year all-cause mortality was significantly higher in patients with versus without RHF after LVAD implantation (29.4% vs. 1.2%; hazard ratio 35.4; 95% confidence interval 4.5-277; p < 0.001). Mortality was highest in patients with delayed RHF after initial LVAD-only implantation (66.7%). Patients who did versus did not develop RHF had significantly higher baseline pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR; 404 ± 375 vs. 234 ± 162 dyn/s/cm5; p = 0.01). PVR > 250 dyn/s/cm5 was a significant predictor of survival in patients with RHF after LVAD implantation. These data confirm the negative impact of RHF on morbidity and mortality after LVAD implantation. Preoperative PVR > 250 dyn/s/cm5 determined using invasive right heart catheterization was an independent predictor of developing RHF after LVAD implantation, and of subsequent mortality, and could be used for risk stratification in the setting for deciding between single or biventricular support strategy.

PERSUADE Survey-PERioperative AnestheSia and Intensive Care Management of Left VentricUlar Assist DevicE Implantation in Europe and the United States

OBJECTIVE

To comprehensively assess relevant institutional variations in anesthesia and intensive care management during left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation.

DESIGN

The authors used a prospective data analysis.

SETTING

This was an online survey.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants were from LVAD centers in Europe and the US.

INTERVENTIONS

After investigating initial interest, 91 of 202 European and 93 of 195 US centers received a link to the survey targeting institutional organization and experience, perioperative hemodynamic monitoring, medical management, and postoperative intensive care aspects.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The survey was completed by 73 (36.1%) European and 60 (30.8%) US centers. Although most LVAD implantations were performed in university hospitals (>5 years of experience), significant differences were observed in the composition of the preoperative multidisciplinary team and provision of intraoperative care. No significant differences in monitoring or induction agents were observed. Propofol was used more often for maintenance in Europe (p < 0.001). The choice for inotropes changed significantly from preoperatively (more levosimendan in Europe) to intraoperatively (more use of epinephrine in both Europe and the US). The use of quantitative methods for defining right ventricular (RV) function was reported more often from European centers than from US centers (p < 0.05). Temporary mechanical circulatory support for the treatment of RV failure was more often used in Europe. Nitric oxide appeared to play a major role only intraoperatively. There were no significant differences in early postoperative complications reported from European versus US centers.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the perioperative practice of care for patients undergoing LVAD implantation differs in several aspects between Europe and the US, there were no perceived differences in early postoperative complications.

Warfarin and aspirin versus warfarin alone for prevention of bleeding and thrombotic events in patients with a HeartMate 3™ left ventricular assist device

BACKGROUND

We conducted a single-center, retrospective comparison of adult patients who received warfarin and ASA or warfarin alone after HeartMate 3 (HM3) LVAD placement.

METHODS

The primary outcome was a composite of bleeding and thrombotic events.

RESULTS

Of 81 patients, 53 patients received warfarin and ASA, and 28 patients received warfarin alone. A primary outcome event occurred in 22 of 53 patients (41.4%) in the warfarin and ASA group and in 2 of 28 patients (7.1%) in the warfarin alone group (p = 0.0533). The odds of a bleeding event occurring were higher in the warfarin and ASA group (32.1% vs. 7.1%, p = 0.01309). The odds of a thrombotic event occurring were not significantly different between the warfarin and ASA group and the warfarin alone group (9.4% vs. 0%, respectively, p = 0.1582).

CONCLUSION

The complete omission of ASA from the antithrombotic regimen of patients with a HM3 LVAD was associated with less bleeding events without an increase in thrombotic events.

Comparing the Efficacy and Safety of Warfarin Monotherapy vs. Warfarin and Aspirin for Adult Patients With Left Ventricular Assist Devices: A Meta-Analysis

The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the safety and efficacy of warfarin plus aspirin versus warfarin monotherapy in patients with left ventricular assist devices (LVAD). The present meta-analysis was conducted using the guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Two authors systematically searched online databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science from inception to December 31, 2023. Outcomes assessed in this meta-analysis included any thrombotic event, bleeding events, and all-cause mortality. A total of five articles were included in the meta-analysis, enrolling a pooled sample size of 876 patients, including 405 in the warfarin monotherapy group and 471 in the warfarin plus aspirin group. Pooled analysis showed that the risk of thrombotic events was not significantly different between the two groups (risk ratio (RR): 0.46, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.15-1.37). The risk of bleeding events was significantly lower in patients receiving warfarin alone compared to patients receiving aspirin plus warfarin (RR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.53-0.85). The risk of all-cause mortality was not significantly different between patients receiving warfarin alone and patients receiving aspirin plus warfarin (RR: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.65-1.30). Despite the potential benefits of discontinuing aspirin, the decision should be approached cautiously, considering the undefined risks of discontinuing anticoagulation in LVAD patients.

Right ventricular myocardial work for the prediction of early right heart failure and long-term mortality after left ventricular assist device implant

AIMS

Right heart failure (RHF) after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implant is burdened by high morbidity and mortality rates and should be prevented by appropriate patient selection. Adequate right ventricular function is of paramount importance but its assessment is complex and cannot disregard afterload. Myocardial work (MW) is a non-invasive Speckle Tracking Echocardiography-derived method to estimate pressure-volume loops. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of right ventricular myocardial work to predict RHF and long-term mortality after LVAD implant.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Consecutive patients from May 2017 to February 2022 undergoing LVAD implant were retrospectively reviewed. Patients without a useful echocardiographic exam prior to LVAD implant were excluded. MW analysis was performed. The primary endpoints were early RHF (<30 days from LVAD implant) and death at latest available follow-up. We included 23 patients (mean age 64 ± 8 years, 91% men). Median follow-up was 339 days (IQR: 30-1143). Early RHF occurred in six patients (26%). A lower right ventricular global work efficiency [RVGWE, OR 0.86, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 0.76-0.97, P = 0.014] was associated with the occurrence of early RHF. Among MW indices, the performance for early RHF prediction was greatest for RVGWE [area under the curve (AUC) 0.92] and a cut-off of 77% had a 100% sensitivity and 82% specificity. At long-term follow-up, death occurred in 4 of 14 patients (28.6%) in the RVGWE > 77% group and in 6 of 9 patients (66.7%) in the RVGWE < 77% group (HR 0.25, 95% CI 0.07-0.90, P = 0.033).

CONCLUSION

RVGWE was a predictor of early RHF after LVAD implant and brought prognostic value in terms of long-term mortality.

Post-transplant survival with pre-transplant durable continuous-flow mechanical circulatory support in a Swiss cohort of heart transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

Worldwide, almost half of all heart transplantation candidates arrive today at their transplant operation with durable continuous-flow mechanical circulatory support (CF-MCS). This evolution is due to a progressive increase of waiting list time and hence an increased risk of haemodynamic worsening. Longer duration of CF-MCS is associated with a higher risk of device-related complications with potential adverse impact on post-transplant outcome as suggested by recent results from the United Network of Organ Sharing of the United States.

METHODS

A 2-centre Swiss heart transplantation programme conducted a retrospective observational study of consecutive patients of theirs who underwent a transplant in the period 2008-2020. The primary aim was to determine whether post-transplant all-cause mortality is different between heart transplant recipients without or with pre-transplant CF-MCS. The secondary outcome was the acute cellular rejection score within the first year post-transplant.

RESULTS

The study participants had a median age of 54 years; 38/158 (24%) were females. 53/158 study participants (34%) had pre-transplant CF-MCS with a median treatment duration of 280 days. In heart transplant recipients with pre-transplant CF-MCS, the prevalence of ischaemic cardiomyopathy was higher (51 vs 32%; p = 0.013), the left ventricular ejection fraction was lower (20 vs 25; p = 0.047) and pulmonary vascular resistance was higher (2.3 vs 2.1 Wood Units; p = 0.047). Over the study period, the proportion of heart transplant recipients with pre-transplant CF-MCS and the duration of pre-transplant CF-MCS treatment increased (2008-2014 vs 2015-2020: 22% vs 45%, p = 0.009; increase of treatment days per year: 34.4 ± 11.2 days, p = 0.003; respectively). The primary and secondary outcomes were not different between heart transplant recipients with pre-transplant CF-MCS or direct heart transplantation (log-rank p = 0.515; 0.16 vs 0.14, respectively; p = 0.81).

CONCLUSION

This data indicates that the strategy of pre-transplant CF-MCS with subsequent orthotopic heart transplantation provides post-transplant outcomes not different to direct heart transplantation despite the fact that the duration of pre-transplant assist device treatment has progressively increased.

Long-Term Medical Treatment and Adherence in Patients With Left Ventricular Assist Devices: A Danish Nationwide Cohort Study

The use of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) in treating advanced heart failure has increased. However, data regarding medical treatment and adherence following LVAD implantation is sparse, particularly whether socioeconomic factors (cohabitation status, educational level, employment status, and income) and multimorbidity influence these aspects, which are known to impact adherence in heart failure patients. We performed a nationwide cohort study of 119 patients with LVAD implanted between January 1, 2006, and December 31, 2018, who were discharged alive with LVAD therapy. We linked individual-level data from clinical LVAD databases, the Scandiatransplant Database, and Danish medical and administrative registers. Medical treatment 90-day pre-LVAD and 720-day post-LVAD were assessed using descriptive statistics in 90-day intervals. Medication adherence (proportion of days covered ≥80%) was assessed 181- to 720-day post-LVAD. The proportions of patients using angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers (88.7%), beta-blockers (67.0%), mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (62.9%), warfarin (87.6%), and aspirin (55.7%) within 90-day post-LVAD were higher than pre-LVAD and were stable during follow-up. Medication adherence ranged from 86.7% (aspirin) to 97.8% (warfarin). Socioeconomic factors and multimorbidity did not influence medical medication use and adherence. Among LVAD patients, medical treatment and adherence are at high levels, regardless of socioeconomic background and multimorbidity.

Stroke and Mechanical Circulatory Support in Adults

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW

Short-term and durable mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices represent life-saving interventions for patients with cardiogenic shock and end-stage heart failure. This review will cover the epidemiology, risk factors, and treatment of stroke in this patient population.

RECENT FINDINGS

Short-term devices such as intra-aortic balloon pump, Impella, TandemHeart, and Venoatrial Extracorporal Membrane Oxygenation, as well as durable continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), improve cardiac output and blood flow to the vital organs. However, MCS use is associated with high rates of complications, including ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes which carry a high risk for death and disability. Improvements in MCS technology have reduced but not eliminated the risk of stroke. Mitigation strategies focus on careful management of anti-thrombotic therapies. While data on therapeutic options for stroke are limited, several case series reported favorable outcomes with thrombectomy for ischemic stroke patients with large vessel occlusions, as well as with reversal of anticoagulation for those with hemorrhagic stroke. Stroke in patients treated with MCS is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Preventive strategies are targeted based on the specific form of MCS. Improvements in the design of the newest generation device have reduced the risk of ischemic stroke, though hemorrhagic stroke remains a serious complication.

Driveline dressings used in heartmate patients and local complications: A retrospective cohort

BACKGROUND

Patients with long-term ventricular assist devices (VAD) are predisposed to infection, bleeding, and pressure injuries at the insertion of the driveline. There is no consensus on a driveline dressing protocol. Chlorhexidine is often used to clean the driveline exit site and has been associated with lower rates of infection. For driveline coverage, bacteriostatic agents and transparent film have shown good results, but are costly. The same issue was associated with anchorage devices.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the types of dressings used in the driveline of patients using HeartMate (HM) and to describe the incidence density of local complications (infection, bleeding, and pressure injury) within 30 days postoperatively.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted and included 22 patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit after implantation of HM II and III in a Brazilian private hospital.

RESULTS

Several types of dressings were used in the drivelines. There were 22 different types of dressings. Dressing type 6 (Chlorhexidine, Excilon, Gauze and IV3000) were the most used (45.4%). Subjects using the Flexi-Trak anchoring device had a higher rate of local bleeding (50.0%) and those who used the Hollister device had more infection (61.1%) and pressure injury associated with a medical device (11.1%), compared to others. Infection was the primary complication (45.4%), followed by local bleeding (27.7%).

CONCLUSION

Despite the high variability of products used in the driveline of patients using HeartMate, the dressing made with chlorhexidine, silver-impregnated absorbent foam and transparent film, and the use of anchoring devices was the most frequently used. Infection was the most common complication.

Insights into the daily life of ventricular assist device coordinators: Outcome of an international questionnaire

BACKGROUND

As the incidence of heart failure in developed countries is on the rise, mechanical circulatory support (MCS) often remains the only treatment option for patients with end-stage heart failure and is well established worldwide. Even though VAD coordinators play a key role in VAD programs, their responsibilities and daily duties are not clearly defined and characterized. Recently published data from the first 5-year multicenter clinical trial assessing experience with the HeartMate 3 left ventricular system (Abbott, Abbott Park, IL) show an overall survival of 61% at 5 years. When it comes to possible improvements to these systems, it is necessary for developers not only to know the status quo but also to determine and consider the visions and wishes of those individuals who take care of patients, provide education and deal with possible complications. This would be helpful a meaningful effort towards implementing a standard of care.

METHODS

To fill this knowledge gap, we conducted an online survey using the SurveyMonkey tool, addressing representatives of programs implanting VADs worldwide. Representatives answered a standardized block of 14 questions and were asked to provide responses within 3 months.

RESULTS

A total of 91 VAD coordinators from centers of various regions of the world completed the survey. The majority came from European countries. The numbers of patients followed up by the centers ranged from <20 to 390 patients. The majority of VAD coordinators had a nursing background (68%). Seventy-seven percent of the centers operate a 24-h hotline and 3-monthly visits to the outpatient department are most common. Fifty-nine percent of the centers do not use an infection scoring system for driveline wound care. The majority of the centers indicated that an optimized follow-up concept including wound care, medication, and social care is crucial and the key issue for an improved outcome. Smaller components and intensified psychosocial support ranked highest in questions about how to improve quality of life. Surprisingly, the future prospects of telemetric monitoring were not rated high in significance.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a wide variability in the composition and tasks of VAD programs worldwide. Implementing a standard of care and improving psychosocial care as well as equipment is regarded most important to improve outcomes and quality of life. From the point of view of those responsible, the significance of telemetric monitoring seemed overrated.

Cardiological Challenges Related to Long-Term Mechanical Circulatory Support for Advanced Heart Failure in Patients with Chronic Non-Ischemic Cardiomyopathy

Long-term mechanical circulatory support by a left ventricular assist device (LVAD), with or without an additional temporary or long-term right ventricular (RV) support, is a life-saving therapy for advanced heart failure (HF) refractory to pharmacological treatment, as well as for both device and surgical optimization therapies. In patients with chronic non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM), timely prediction of HF's transition into its end stage, necessitating life-saving heart transplantation or long-term VAD support (as a bridge-to-transplantation or destination therapy), remains particularly challenging, given the wide range of possible etiologies, pathophysiological features, and clinical presentations of NICM. Decision-making between the necessity of an LVAD or a biventricular assist device (BVAD) is crucial because both unnecessary use of a BVAD and irreversible right ventricular (RV) failure after LVAD implantation can seriously impair patient outcomes. The pre-operative or, at the latest, intraoperative prediction of RV function after LVAD implantation is reliably possible, but necessitates integrative evaluations of many different echocardiographic, hemodynamic, clinical, and laboratory parameters. VADs create favorable conditions for the reversal of structural and functional cardiac alterations not only in acute forms of HF, but also in chronic HF. Although full cardiac recovery is rather unusual in VAD recipients with pre-implant chronic HF, the search for myocardial reverse remodelling and functional improvement is worthwhile because, for sufficiently recovered patients, weaning from VADs has proved to be feasible and capable of providing survival benefits and better quality of life even if recovery remains incomplete. This review article aimed to provide an updated theoretical and practical background for those engaged in this highly demanding and still current topic due to the continuous technical progress in the optimization of long-term VADs, as well as due to the new challenges which have emerged in conjunction with the proof of a possible myocardial recovery during long-term ventricular support up to levels which allow successful device explantation.

Argon Cold Plasma Use and Driveline Infection in Left Ventricular Assist Device Implant Recipients

We conducted a prospective open-labeled, clinical trial, with a two-by-two factorial design, of argon cold plasma (ACP) application and two different types of driveline positioning for the prevention of driveline infection (DLI) in patients with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implant. Here, we present the results of ACP application versus no ACP application. Eighty patients were allocated to the control group (no preventive ACP use; n = 40) or ACP group (preventive ACP use for 30 days post-LVAD implantation; n = 40). Patients were followed up for 1 year. The secondary endpoint was survival on device. Preventive ACP use improved 30 day freedom from DLI significantly (100% vs. 85%; p = 0.012); results remained significant at 6 months (92% vs. 69%, p = 0.007) and were 55% and 60%, respectively ( p = 0.65) at 1 year follow-up. With respect to survival on device, results in the control and ACP groups did not differ significantly at 30 days (97.5% vs. 100%, respectively; p = 0.32), but tended to be lower in the control group than in the ACP group at 1 year follow-up (74% vs. 90%, respectively; p = 0.09). In conclusion, preventive ACP use was able to significantly reduce DLI both during the application period and up to 6 months after LVAD implantation.

Case report: Facilitating right heart recovery after durable LVAD implantation through repair of atrioventricular valves and RVAD implantation using tunneled Dacron grafts

Right ventricular assist device (RVAD) weaning is often an important goal for durable left ventricular assist device support. This may be facilitated by mitral and tricuspid repair as well as by minimizing the trauma of RVAD decannulation by using Dacron grafts.

Acute Outflow Graft Occlusion-A Novel Predictable Complication of Lysis Therapy for the Treatment of Left Ventricular Assist Device Intra-Pump Thrombosis

Lysis therapy is an established treatment option for intra-pump thrombosis of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs). In clinical routine, we observed repeated cases of acute outflow graft occlusions (OGO) associated with lysis therapy with need for urgent intervention. The aim of this investigation was to gain understanding of this observation. We screened data of 962 HeartWare ventricular assist device (HVAD) patients. One hundred twenty (13.8%) had intra-pump thromboses; 58 were treated with recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator (rtPA). Mean age was 53.0 ± 11.1 years; 84.9% were male. In 13 (24.5%) patients, OGO occurred following rtPA-lysis. These patients showed an increase in left ventricular function (18.45% ± 12.62% to 27.73% ± 10.57%; p = 0.056), more frequent 1:1 aortic valve opening (OGO+: +36.4%; OGO-: +7.4%; p = 0.026), a decrease in LVAD pulsatility within 12 months prior intra-pump thrombosis (OGO+: -0.8 L/min [interquartile range {IQR}, -1.4 to -0.4 L/min]; OGO-: -0.3 L/min [IQR, -0.9 to 0.1 L/min]; p = 0.038) and lower HVAD flows at admission (OGO+: 6.7 L/min [IQR, 6.1-7.4 L/min]; OGO-: 8.3 L/min [IQR, 6.9-9.3 L/min]; p = 0.013), indicating a subclinical OGO prior intra-pump thrombosis. There were no differences in implantation techniques, blood parameters, and lysis strategy. Subclinical OGO represented a major risk factor for acute OGO following rtPA lysis therapy. We here propose an algorithm for risk stratification and dealing with patients presenting this first-described complication. Further research is required to confirm our results and decipher the underlying pathomechanism. http://links.lww.com/ASAIO/B97.

Exercise Performance and Quality of Life of Left Ventricular Assist Device Patients After Long-Term Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation

PURPOSE

Exercise performance and quality of life (QoL) of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) patients improve after early cardiac rehabilitation (CR). The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of multiprofessional long term phase 3 outpatient CR, and whether cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) and 6-min walk testing (6MWT) post-LVAD implantation predict hospital readmission.

METHODS

This retrospective observational cohort study included 29 LVAD patients (58.6 ± 7.7 yr, female: 13.8%, body mass index: 29.4 ± 3.3 kg/m 2 ). Functional performance tests (CPX, 6MWT, sit-to-stand test), QoL, and psychological surveys (Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire, hospital anxiety and depression scale, and Control Convictions about Disease and Health [KKG]) were performed at baseline and at the end of CR.

RESULTS

The CR was initiated at a median (IQR) of 159 (130-260) d after LVAD implantation for a duration of 340 (180-363) d with 46.8 ± 23.2 trainings. The 6MWT (408.4 ± 113.3 vs 455.4 ± 115.5 m, P = .003) and sit-to-stand test (16.7 ± 6.9 vs 19.0 ± 5.3 repetitions, P = .033) improved, but relative peak oxygen uptake (V˙ o2peak : 9.4 [8.2-14.4] vs 9.3 [7.8-13.4] mL/min/kg, P = .57) did not change. Using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, baseline V˙ o2peak values were associated with readmission 1-yr after CR onset (C-statistic = 0.88) with a cutoff value of V˙ o2peak < 9.15 mL/min/kg (100% sensitivity, 78% specificity, P < .001). The Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire self-efficacy and knowledge (+6.3 points), QoL (+5.0 points), and social limitation (+7.1 points) demonstrated clinically important changes. In addition, the hospital anxiety and depression scale showed a significant reduction in anxiety (4.6 ± 3.2 vs 2.6 ± 2.4, P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term CR is safe and LVAD outpatients showed improvement of QoL, anxiety, and submaximal exercise performance. In addition, V˙ o2peak and 6MWT have prognostic value for readmission.

Use of Intracorporeal Durable LVAD Support in Children Using HVAD or HeartMate 3-A EUROMACS Analysis

Purpose: The withdrawal of HVAD in 2021 created a concern for the pediatric population. The alternative implantable centrifugal blood pump HeartMate 3 has since been used more frequently in children. This paper analyses the outcome of children on LVAD support provided with an HVAD or HM3. Methods: A retrospective analysis of the EUROMACS database on children supported with VAD < 19 years of age from 1 January 2009 to 1 December 2021 was conducted. All patients with an LVAD and either an HVAD or HM3 were included. Patients with missing data on VAD status and/or missing baseline and/or follow up information were excluded. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to evaluate survival differences. Analyses were performed using Fisher's exact test. Results: The study included 150 implantations in 142 patients with 128 implants using an HVAD compared to 28 implants using an HM3. Nine patients (6%) needed temporary right ventricular mechanical support, which was significantly higher in the HM3 group, with 25% (p: 0.01). Patients in the HVAD group were significantly younger (12.7 vs. 14.5 years, p: 0.01), weighed less (45.7 vs. 60 kg, p: <0.000) and had lower BSA values (1.3 vs. 1.6 m2, p: <0.000). Median support time was 204 days. Overall, 98 patients (69%) were discharged and sent home, while 87% were discharged in group HM3 (p: ns). A total of 123 children (86%) survived to transplantation, recovery or are ongoing, without differences between groups. In the HVAD group, 10 patients (8%) died while on support, whereas in 12% of HM3 patients died (p: 0.7). Conclusions: Survival in children implanted with an HM3 was excellent. Almost 90% were discharged and sent home on the device.

Use of implantable cardioverter-defibrillator in children supported with ventricular assist device: An analysis of data from the EUROMACS registry

BACKGROUND

Data on the use and outcome of children on ventricular assist device (VAD) support provided with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) remains poor.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of the EUROMACS database on children supported with VAD < 19 years of age from January 1, 2009 to April 1, 2020. Patients with missing data on status of ICD, missing baseline and/or follow up information were excluded. The primary independent variable of interest was the concomitant presence or absence of an ICD at the time of VAD placement. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to evaluate survival differences between children on VAD with and without an ICD.

RESULTS

Out of 303 patients provided with a VAD, 7% (7♀, 15♂) had an ICD implanted and formed the study group. Median age was 14 years, median weight was 43.5 kg, and median BSA was 1.39. Median Intermacs stage was 2 (range: 1-7). Seventeen patients (77%) were transplanted, 4 (18%) died while on support, and 1 (5%) was weaned from device after myocardial recovery. Median time on support was 68 days compared to 361 days in the control group (p: 0.01). Three patients underwent device exchange due to thrombus formation in the pump. There was no difference in survival between groups (p = 0.342).

CONCLUSION

The presence of ICD in pediatric patients supported with a VAD is low (7%). Children on VAD support provided with an ICD do not have a survival benefit compared to children without an ICD.

Managing valvular pathology during LVAD implantation

Since the time of their invention, implantable continuous flow left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have improved the quality of life and extended survival for patients with advanced heart failure. The decision surgeons and their physician colleagues make with these patients to undergo implantation must come with full understanding of the immediate, short-term, and long-term implications of such a life-changing procedure. The presence of pathology regarding the aortic, mitral, and tricuspid valves introduces particularly complex problems for the surgical treatment strategy. Concomitant valve repair or replacement increases cardiopulmonary bypass and cross clamp times, and could potentially lead to worse outcomes in the perioperative setting. Following perioperative recovery, valvular pathology may worsen or arise de novo given the often drastic immediate physiologic changes in blood flow, septal function, and, over time, ventricular remodeling. Over the past two decades, there has been vast improvement in the device manufacturing, surgical techniques, and medical management surrounding LVAD implantation. Yet, addressing concomitant valvular pathology remains a complex question with no perfect solutions. This review aims to briefly describe the evolution of approach to valvular pathology in the LVAD patient and offer our opinion and treatment rationale.

Durable left ventricular assist device implant-how I teach it

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have become a mainstay of advanced heart failure therapy. The technical aspects of performing a device implant are nuanced and attention to these details allows for successful therapy with good outcomes. As more patient with heart failure are expected to benefit from mechanical circulatory support, the need for a concise and consistent technique for LVAD implantation is needed. Teaching this procedure is most comprehensible when broken down into separate steps, as with many other procedures. Here, we describe our standard protocol for LVAD implantation, as well as rudimentary outcomes of 6-year experience in our center. We hope this will provide some insight and guidance to centers who are expanding into the field of mechanical circulatory support and can help them form a foundation with which to build their own experience and success.

Predictors and clinical implications of residual mitral regurgitation following left ventricular assist device therapy

BACKGROUND

Correction of mitral regurgitation (MR) at the time of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation remains controversial. There is conflicting evidence regarding the clinical impact of residual MR, and studies have not examined whether MR aetiology or right heart function impacts the likelihood of residual MR.

METHODS

This is a retrospective single-centre study of 155 consecutive patients with LVAD implantation from January 2011 to March 2020. Exclusion criteria were no MR pre-LVAD (n=8), inaccessible echocardiography (n=9), duplicate records (n=10) and concomitant mitral valve repair (n=1). Statistical analysis was performed using STATA V.16 and SPSS V.24.

RESULTS

Carpentier IIIb MR aetiology was associated with more severe MR pre-LVAD (severe 18/27 (67%) vs non-severe 32/91 (35%), p=0.004) and a higher likelihood of residual MR (8/11 (72%) vs 30/74 (41%), p=0.045). Of 95 patients with significant MR pre-LVAD, 15 (16%) had persistent significant MR, which was associated with higher mortality (p=0.006), post-LVAD right ventricle (RV) dilatation (10/15 (67%) vs 28/80 (35%), p=0.022) and RV dysfunction (14/15 (93%) vs 35/80 (44%), p<0.001). Aside from ischaemic aetiology, other pre-LVAD parameters that were associated with significant residual MR included left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVESD) (6.9 cm (5.7-7.2) vs 5.9 cm (5.5-6.5), p=0.043), left atrial volume index (LAVi) (78 mL/m² (56-88) vs 57 mL/m² (47-77), p=0.021), posterior leaflet displacement (2.5 cm (2.3-2.9) vs 2.3 cm (1.9-2.7), p=0.042) and basal right ventricular end-diastolic diameter (RVEDD) (5.1±0.8 cm vs 4.5±0.8 cm, p=0.010).

CONCLUSION

LVAD therapy improves MR and tricuspid regurgitation severity in the majority, but 14% have persistent significant residual MR, associated with right ventricular dysfunction and higher long-term mortality. This may be predicted pre-LVAD by greater LVESD, RVEDD and LAVi and by ischaemic aetiology.

Diabetes mellitus impact on left ventricular assist device outcomes in heart failure patients: National Inpatient Sample study

Aim: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a recognized risk factor for heart failure (HF), increasing the likelihood of requiring left ventricular assist device (LVAD) therapy. Objective: This retrospective cohort study aims to assess the impact of DM on LVAD patients, focusing on in-hospital mortality as the primary outcome. Methods: Utilizing the National Inpatient Sample administrative database, data from 11,506 adult HF patients who underwent LVAD implantation were analyzed. Results: Of the patients, 44.28% had diabetes. Adjusting for various factors, diabetic patients exhibited shorter hospital stays, lower admission costs and similar in-hospital mortality rates compared with non-diabetic patients. Conclusion: These findings enhance our understanding of the risks and benefits of LVAD therapy in patients with refractory HF and DM.

Artificial Muscles and Soft Robotic Devices for Treatment of End-Stage Heart Failure

Medical soft robotics constitutes a rapidly developing field in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, with a promising future for millions of patients suffering from heart failure worldwide. Herein, the present state and future direction of artificial muscle-based soft robotic biomedical devices in supporting the inotropic function of the heart are reviewed, focusing on the emerging electrothermally artificial heart muscles (AHMs). Artificial muscle powered soft robotic devices can mimic the action of complex biological systems such as heart compression and twisting. These artificial muscles possess the ability to undergo complex deformations, aiding cardiac function while maintaining a limited weight and use of space. Two very promising candidates for artificial muscles are electrothermally actuated AHMs and biohybrid actuators using living cells or tissue embedded with artificial structures. Electrothermally actuated AHMs have demonstrated superior force generation while creating the prospect for fully soft robotic actuated ventricular assist devices. This review will critically analyze the limitations of currently available devices and discuss opportunities and directions for future research. Last, the properties of the cardiac muscle are reviewed and compared with those of different materials suitable for mechanical cardiac compression.

Long-term assist device patients admitted to ICU: Tips and pitfalls

Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) therapy is well-established in the treatment of end-stage cardiac failure. Indications are bridge to transplant (BTT), bridge to candidacy (BTC), bridge to recovery (BTR), and destination therapy (DT). The durability and adverse event (AE) rate of LVADs have improved over the years. However, due to donor shortage, the duration of support in the BTT population has increased tremendously; similarly, DT patients are on the device for a long time. Consequently, the number of readmissions of long-term LVAD patients has increased. In cases of severe AEs, intensive care unit (ICU) treatment can be necessary. Infectious complications are the most common AE. Furthermore, embolic or hemorrhagic strokes can occur due to foreign surfaces, acquired von Willebrand syndrome, and anticoagulation treatment. Another consequence of the coagulative status, in combination with the continuous flow, are gastrointestinal bleeding events. Moreover, in most patients, an isolated LVAD is implanted, and this involves the risk of late right heart failure. Adjustment of pump speed and optimization of the volume status can help solve this issue. Malignant arrhythmias, pre-existing or de novo after LVAD implantation, can be a life-threatening AE. Antiarrhythmic medical therapy or ablation are potential treatment options. As for specific LVADs, the Medtronic HeartWare™ ventricular assist device (HVAD) is not manufactured and distributed currently; however, 4000 patients are still on the device. Pump thrombosis can occur, wherein thrombolytic therapy is the first-line treatment option. Additionally, the HVAD can fail to restart after controller exchange due to technical issues, and precautions must be taken. The Momentum 3 trial showed superior survival without pump exchange or disabling stroke in patients treated with the HeartMate 3^Ⓡ (HM3; Abbott, Abbott Park, IL, USA) device in comparison to the HeartMate II (HMII). However, in a few cases, a twisted graft or bio debris formation between the outflow graft and bend relief could be observed, causing outflow graft obstruction. Patients on LVADs are still heart failure patients, in many cases with comorbidities. Therefore, many situations can occur requiring ICU treatment. Ethical aspects should always be the focus when taking care of these patients.

Left Ventricular Assist Device as a Destination Therapy: Current Situation and the Importance of Patient Selection

Advanced heart failure is a growing problem for which the best treatment is cardiac transplantation. However, the shortage of donors' hearts made left ventricular assist devices as destination therapy (DT-LVAD) a highly recommended alternative: they improved mid-term prognosis as well as patients' quality of life. Current intracorporeal pumps with a centrifugal continuous flow evolved in the last few years. Since 2003, when first LVAD was approved for long-term support, smaller device sizes with better survival and hemocompatibility profile were reached. The most important difficulty lies in the moment of the implant. Recent indications range from INTERMACS class 2 to 4, with close monitoring in intermediate cases. Moreover, a large multiparametric study is needed for considering the candidacy: basal situation, with a special interest in frailty, comorbidities, including renal and hepatic dysfunction, and medical background, considering every prior cardiac condition, must be evaluated. In addition, some clinical risk scores can be helpful to measure the possibility of right heart failure or morbi-mortality. With this review, we sought to summarize all the device improvements, with their updated clinical results, as well as to focus on all the patient selection criteria.