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Successful Delivery in a Patient With Left Ventricular Assist Device and Unplanned Pregnancy
George Makdisi1, M Y Jan2, Lauren Dungy-Poythress3
1Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Tampa General Hospital, Tampa, Florida.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|June 22, 2017
Summary
A pregnant woman with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) successfully carried her pregnancy to term. This case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary team approach for managing high-risk pregnancies with mechanical circulatory support.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Cardiovascular Devices
Background:
- Managing pregnancy in women with mechanical circulatory support, such as a left ventricular assist device (LVAD), presents unique challenges.
- Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are increasingly used in women of childbearing potential for advanced heart failure.
Observation:
- A 20-week pregnant patient with an LVAD chose to continue her pregnancy against medical advice.
- This case necessitated a highly coordinated, multidisciplinary approach to care.
Findings:
- Close monitoring and frequent adjustments of LVAD parameters and maternal medications were crucial.
- Successful vaginal delivery was achieved, with favorable outcomes for both the mother and the neonate.
Implications:
- This case highlights the feasibility of carrying a pregnancy to term with LVAD support when managed by an expert team.
- It underscores the importance of individualized care plans and continuous device management in high-risk pregnancies.
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