Right latissimus dorsi cardiomyoplasty for left ventricular failure

Recent experimental studies have shown that cardiomyoplasty using the right latissimus dorsi provides excellent hemodynamic augmentation. Based on these experimental findings, this procedure was performed in a 40-year-old man with a dilated cardiomyopathy after a large myocardial infarction. The patient tolerated the procedure well and has had marked functional improvement. Examination 6 months after operation demonstrated decreases in right atrial pressure, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, and left ventricular end-diastolic volume. In addition, increases were noted in cardiac output, stroke volume, left ventricular stroke-work, right ventricular ejection fraction, and left ventricular ejection fraction. Because of this promising clinical result, we have started a series of right latissimus dorsi cardiomyoplasties for left ventricular failure.