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Updated: Jun 4, 2026
08:49
Use of Two Intracorporeal Ventricular Assist Devices As a Total Artificial Heart
Published on: May 11, 2018
Biventricular support using implantable continuous-flow ventricular assist devices.
Shunsuke Saito1, Taichi Sakaguchi, Shigeru Miyagawa
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2 Yamada-oka Suita, Osaka, Japan.
Summary
A patient with fulminant myocarditis successfully transitioned from a paracorporeal biventricular assist device (BiVAD) to implantable rotary pumps, achieving stability and discharge. This case highlights a viable strategy for advanced heart failure management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
- Mechanical Circulatory Support
Background:
- Fulminant myocarditis presents a critical challenge in heart failure management.
- Biventricular assist devices (BiVAD) offer temporary support but may require transition to long-term solutions.
- The case explores the use of different rotary pumps for biventricular support.
Observation:
- A 34-year-old woman with fulminant myocarditis initially received a paracorporeal BiVAD.
- After 6 months, the patient developed heart failure due to pulmonary insufficiency, necessitating device modification.
- Pulmonary valve closure and conversion to implantable rotary pumps were performed.
Findings:
- Left ventricular assist was achieved using a DuraHeart centrifugal pump.
- Right ventricular assist was provided by a Jarvik 2000 axial-flow pump.
- Despite the complexity of managing two different pump types, the patient experienced an uneventful postoperative recovery.
Implications:
- This approach demonstrates the feasibility of transitioning from paracorporeal to implantable BiVAD systems in select heart failure patients.
- Successful management of dual, different rotary pumps offers a potential long-term mechanical circulatory support strategy.
- The case underscores the importance of adaptive strategies in managing advanced heart failure.
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