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Published on: July 20, 2022
Skirted Cannula Technique for Apical Cannulation in Implantation of Centrimag Left Ventricular Assist Device
Ta-Chung Shen1, Kuei-Ton Tsai2, Chin-Yuan Hu1
1Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan.
Insights
A new skirted cannula technique improves CentriMag ventricular assist device implantation for acute cardiogenic shock. This method enhances cannula fixation, enabling patient ambulation during extended device use beyond the standard 30-day limit.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Medical Device Technology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- The CentriMag is a short-term ventricular assist device for acute cardiogenic shock, approved for up to 30 days.
- Extended use of the CentriMag beyond its licensed duration is clinically relevant.
- Challenges exist in securing the apical cannula for prolonged support and patient mobility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and evaluate a novel skirted cannula technique for apical cannulation during CentriMag implantation.
- To assess the efficacy of this technique in ensuring secure cannula fixation and hemostasis.
- To determine the potential for facilitating patient ambulation and rehabilitation with extended CentriMag support.
Main Methods:
- Development of a skirted cannula design for apical implantation.
- Surgical implantation of the CentriMag using the novel skirted cannula technique.
- Assessment of cannula positioning, hemostasis, and fixation security.
- Evaluation of patient mobility and rehabilitation participation.
Main Results:
- The skirted cannula technique allows for straightforward and precise cannula positioning.
- Excellent hemostasis was achieved at the apical insertion site.
- The technique provides secure cannula fixation, crucial for extended use.
- Patients demonstrated the ability to ambulate and participate in rehabilitation programs.
Conclusions:
- The skirted cannula technique offers a safe and effective method for CentriMag apical cannulation.
- This innovation supports the feasibility of extended ventricular assist device use.
- Facilitating patient ambulation enhances recovery and quality of life during mechanical circulatory support.
Abstract:
The CentriMag, an extracorporeal short-term ventricular assist device designed for treatment of patients with acute cardiogenic shock, is Conformité Européenne-marked in Europe for use up to 30 days. Extended use beyond the licensed period is not uncommon, however. We have developed a skirted cannula technique for apical cannulation in implantation of the Centrimag. This technique allows easy positioning of the cannula and excellent hemostasis. It also offers secure fixation of the cannula so that patients can ambulate and attend rehabilitation programs should extended use be anticipated.

