HeartMate II pump exchange with HeartMate III implantation to the descending aorta

Abstract

Removal of the HeartMate II left ventricular assist device (LVAD) usually requires a sternotomy. We report a case of HeartMate III LVAD implantation to the descending aorta via a left thoracotomy while leaving most of the HeartMate II device in place to avoid redo‐sternotomy.

Early outcomes with durable left ventricular assist device replacement using the HeartMate 3

“…Going forward, it is anticipated that some replacements to HM3 may be conducted via a lateral approach. 14,15 Furthermore, the best surgical approach may depend on the individual circumstances of the patient and case. The benefits of replacements with HM3, shown in this study, are probably related to the device type; however, it is possible that differences in surgical techniques between the 2 groups contributed to the outcome.…”

HeartMate 3 device implantation via left thoracotomy

“…Other alternative approaches to LVAD placement have been described in literature, such as bilateral thoracotomies approach. LVAD placement via left thoracotomy approach has been rarely described, often in case reports and small case series [1][2][3] .…”

“…Traditional approach to place a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) has been through median sternotomy using ascending aorta for outflow graft anastomosis. More recently non-sternotomy approaches have been shown to be safe and effective [1][2][3] . Non-sternotomy approached are particularly appealing in patients who have had prior cardiac surgery.…”