Outflow Graft Obstruction Treated With Transcatheter Management: A Novel Therapy for a New Diagnosis

The duration of support in patients with HeartMate II implantation as a bridge to transplant or as destination therapy is rising. As clinical experience continues to grow, physiologic changes contributing to pump malfunction are becoming apparent. Once malfunction is noted with increased power spikes, rises in lactate dehydrogenase and low-flow alarms, thrombosis of the pump is at risk. We describe outflow graft compression and offer an expeditious and definitive management strategy. Our novel management stenting strategy for outflow graft compression will continue to evolve as experience is gained.