Advances in mechanical circulatory support: Year in review

Use of Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices in End-Stage Heart Failure Patients

“…In terms of pre‐operative vital status, the simplified acute physiology score (SAPS) II and the inotropic score were calculated. In terms of assessment of RV function, the preoperative Michigan and Pennsylvania scores were evaluated. Additionally, the echocardiographic RV geometry analysis was performed as described elsewhere …”

“…In terms of assessment of RV function, the preoperative Michigan and Pennsylvania scores were evaluated. Additionally, the echocardiographic RV geometry analysis was performed as described elsewhere …”

Interest of Ventricular Assist Device in Peripartum Cardiomyopathy, a Case Report and Review Article*

“…The development of VAD aimed to, first keep the patient alive till heart transplantation or as bridge to transplantation, and second as a destination therapy for end stage heart failure patients not eligible to heart transplantation. In the early 1960s, DeBakey developed the first VAD [7]. In Europe nowadays, more VAD systems are implanted than hearts transplant.…”

“…The old generation VAD consisted on pulsatile flow pumps. New generation Continuous-flow pumps were introduced in the past 13 years, And has revolutionized the management of heart failure, with significantly lower complications than with earlier pulsatile systems and excellent durability [7]. This technological improvement allowed not only saving lives but also improving life quality.…”

Two years and 4 months: A long-term bridge to transplantation with a total artificial heart

“…Right ventricular function and geometry were evaluated according to the University of Pennsylvania algorithm (score Ͼ55) 1 and Berlin decisional echocardiographic parameters (severe tricuspid regurgitation, right ventricle short/long-axis ratio Ͼ0.65, right/left ventricular end-diastolic ratio Ͼ0.72). 2 The total artificial heart (TAH) system was conventionally implanted 3 and activated by the "big blue" circulatory support system driver.The device rapidly stabilized the patient's hemodynamics and provided full recovery of end-organ function. Intensive care unit time was 32 days.…”