Improvement of persistent anuria in severe myocardial infarction: the potential role of Impella 5.5 as a bridge to decision

Abstract

A man in his 40s with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction complicating cardiogenic shock was transferred to our hospital. Emergent percutaneous coronary intervention for the left anterior descending and left circumflex arteries supported with Impella CP was performed. However, his cardiac function was severely impaired, and anuria developed, necessitating continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). After Impella CP was removed on day 6, the patient remained dependent on inotropes and CRRT. Following volume reduction to manage pulmonary congestion, symptoms of low perfusion appeared. Then, Impella 5.5 was inserted on day 38 as a bridge to decision. On day 52, the urine volume reached >2000 mL/day, and CRRT was discontinued. On day 56, the patient was transferred to a certified facility for left ventricular assist device implantation or heart transplantation. This case suggests the potential of Impella 5.5 as a bridge to decision in patients with organ failure caused by low cardiac output.