Clinical experience with bypass of the left ventricle using a roller pump

Left ventricular bypass (LVB) using a roller pump was performed in 39 patients in the immediate postoperative period. In one group, LVB was performed as a last measure to restore cardiac function. The LVB was temporarily effective in this group, but independent circulation was restored in only 2 of 15 patients. Results were considered unsatisfactory. In a second group, LVB was used immediately when acute left ventricular insufficiency refractory to drug treatment developed. In this group, independent circulation was restored in 17 of 18 patients, demonstrating a therapeutic effect. Overall, cardiac activity was restored in 25 patients; 15 patients recovered and were released. Conditions for the recovery of patients are noted.