Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 31, 2026
08:49
Use of Two Intracorporeal Ventricular Assist Devices As a Total Artificial Heart
Published on: May 11, 2018
[Reconstructive surgery in patients with a ventricular assist device (VAD)--an interdisciplinary challenge]
O Frerichs1, M Morshuis, M Schoenbrodt
1Krankenhaus Bethel, Klinik für Plastische, Ästhetische und Handchirurgie, Bückeburg. o.frerichs@krankenhaus-bethel.de
Handchirurgie, Mikrochirurgie, Plastische Chirurgie : Organ Der Deutschsprachigen Arbeitsgemeinschaft Fur Handchirurgie : Organ Der Deutschsprachigen Arbeitsgemeinschaft Fur Mikrochirurgie Der Peripheren Nerven Und Gefasse : Organ Der V
|July 15, 2011
Summary
Reconstructive plastic surgery effectively treats infections and soft tissue defects in patients with ventricular assist devices (VADs). This approach is crucial for managing VAD complications and improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Plastic Surgery
- Infectious Disease Management
Context:
- Growing use of ventricular assist devices (VADs) for end-stage heart failure.
- High incidence of VAD-related infections and healing complications.
- Significant mortality associated with VAD complications.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy of reconstructive plastic surgery in managing VAD-associated infections and soft tissue defects.
- To highlight the role of myocutaneous and muscle flaps in treating these complications.
Summary:
- 11 patients with VAD infections and soft tissue defects underwent treatment with local myocutaneous or muscle flaps.
- Postoperative complications included haematomas (3 patients) and persistent fistulas (2 patients).
- Despite complications, reconstructive surgery addressed critical defects and infections.
Impact:
- Demonstrates the essential role of plastic surgery in managing complex VAD complications.
- Emphasizes the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration between plastic and cardiovascular surgeons.
- Suggests improved patient outcomes through integrated surgical management of VAD-related issues.
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