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Evaluation of right ventricular function during clinical left ventricular assistance.
R L Kormos1, T Gasior, J Antaki
1Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA 15261.
ASAIO Transactions
|July 1, 1989
Summary
Left ventricular assist systems (LVAS) improve right ventricular (RV) function by reducing RV afterload. This allows even patients with impaired RV performance to survive LVAS support and cardiac transplantation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction is a significant concern in patients awaiting cardiac transplantation.
- Left ventricular assist systems (LVAS) are crucial for supporting end-stage heart failure.
- Understanding the impact of LVAS on RV performance is vital for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the hemodynamic and mechanical performance of the right ventricle (RV) during left ventricular assist system (LVAS) support.
- To determine the feasibility of RV function during LVAS therapy in patients bridged to cardiac transplantation.
Main Methods:
- Hemodynamic and mechanical parameters of RV performance were measured in eight patients.
- Patients received LVAS as a bridge to cardiac transplantation.
Main Results:
- All eight patients survived LVAS support and subsequent cardiac transplantation.
- LVAS support led to a reduction in RV afterload.
- Marginal RVs demonstrated adequate function during LVAS support.
Conclusions:
- LVAS effectively reduces RV afterload, thereby improving RV performance.
- Patients with impaired RV function can tolerate and benefit from LVAS support.
- LVAS is a viable option for bridging patients with compromised RV function to cardiac transplantation.