A case of ECPELLA-supported treatment for post-infarction cardiac rupture

The efficacy and risk of a combination of veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and Impella (Abiomed, Inc., Danvers, MA, USA), an approach known as ECPELLA, for post-infarction cardiac rupture is unclear. We describe the case of a 72-year-old man who presented with acute myocardial infarction. The patient was managed with ECPELLA because of hemodynamic compromise. One week later, there was a sudden increase in venous oxygen saturation. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed ventricular septal rupture, and free wall rupture. Intraventricular thrombus was also observed despite standard anticoagulation therapy. Even with double cardiac rupture, ECPELLA could facilitate left ventricular unloading and sustain hemodynamics. However, because of the risk of device failure due to thrombus aspiration into the Impella, the patient underwent repair surgery. Postoperatively, the patient was temporarily weaned off ECPELLA, and his hemodynamics deteriorated again, and he finally died.

ECPELLA can effectively stabilize the hemodynamics in cases of post-infarction cardiac rupture. However, there are still challenges to address, such as determining optimal ventricular reloading and ECPELLA management for intraventricular thrombus prevention. When using ECPELLA to delay surgery for post-infarction cardiac rupture, it is crucial to strike a balance between hemodynamic stabilization and avoiding potential serious complications.