Abstract
Long-term biventricular circulatory support with POLVAD-MEV paracorporeal pulsatile pumps. Single-centre experience
- Department of Cardiac Surgery and Transplantology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
Introduction
Severe heart failure decompensation requires circulatory mechanical support in emergency situations. Polish paracorporeal pulsatile pumps, POLVAD-MEV, are designed for biventricular end-stage heart dysfunction. To evaluate long-term POLVAD-MEV therapy by multiple pump exchange in patients on a transplant list.
Material and methods
There were 3 patients in INTERMACS level 1 referred for emergency POLVAD-MED implantation due to acute heart failure deterioration. The paracorporeal pulsatile mechanical support was applied due to severe biventricular dysfunction.
Results
They were supported by paracorporeal biventricular POLVAD-MEV pumps for 438, 473 and 394 days until heart transplantation. During the hospitalisation the pumps required multiple pumps exchanges within 29 ±10 (4–49) day intervals.
Conclusions
POLVAD-MEV paracorporeal pulsatile pumps present a safe option for long-term circulatory support in a selected group of patients. Therapy requires pump exchange but enables survival while awaiting a heart transplant.
Keywords
heart failure, BIVAD, POLVAD, heart transplantation
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