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Complete atrioventricular block decreases left ventricular assist device flow rate
Frédéric Collart1, Pierre Dieuzaide, François Kerbaul
1Cardiac Surgery Department, La Timone University, Marseille, France.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|July 26, 2005
Summary
A patient with a Novacor left ventricular assist device experienced worsening dyspnea due to a third-degree atrioventricular block. Pacemaker implantation resolved symptoms, highlighting the importance of right ventricle filling.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- A 52-year-old male patient utilized a Novacor left ventricular assist device for 15 months.
- The patient presented with worsening exertional dyspnea, indicating a potential complication.
Observation:
- Diagnostic evaluation revealed a significantly decreased pump flow rate.
- An electrocardiogram identified a third-degree atrioventricular block as the primary cardiac issue.
Findings:
- Implantation of a pacemaker immediately resolved the patient's symptoms and restored cardiac function.
- The case underscores the critical role of adequate right ventricle filling in patients with ventricular assist devices.
Implications:
- Conduction disorders, such as atrioventricular block, can severely impair right ventricle filling.
- Maintaining optimal right ventricle function is crucial for the efficacy of left ventricular assist devices.