Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 26, 2026

Use of Two Intracorporeal Ventricular Assist Devices As a Total Artificial Heart
Published on: May 11, 2018
Alternative Strategy for Biventricular Assist Device in an Infant With Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
John C Dykes1, Olaf Reinhartz2, Christopher S Almond1
1Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.
Abstract:
We report an infant with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy who underwent biventricular assist device placement with two 15-mL Berlin Heart EXCOR pediatric ventricular assist devices using an alternative atrial cannulation strategy. The systemic circulation was supported by left atrium (LA) to aorta cannulation. The LA was accessed through the right atrium by extending a 6-mm EXCOR cannula with a Gore-Tex graft connected to an atrial septal defect. The pulmonary circulation was supported with cannulation of the right atrium to pulmonary artery. This alternative cannulation strategy facilitated effective biventricular support and may be applicable to other patients with hypertrophic or restrictive physiology.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Heart Failure VI: Adjunct Therapies
Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management
Cardiomyopathy IV: Restrictive Cardiomyopathy

