The iron woman: a case report of contemporary cardiac support

Jeremy A Brooksbank1, Nikolaos Spilias2, Carmela D Tan3

  • 1TriStar Centennial Medical Center, Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology, 2400 Patterson St. Suite 502, Nashville, TN 37203, USA.

Insights

This case study details a patient with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and severe mitral regurgitation who underwent multiple device therapies. It highlights the progression of advanced heart failure treatments, including mechanical support and cardiac transplantation.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Interventional Cardiology
  • Heart Failure Management

Background:

  • Modern cardiovascular practice employs diverse devices and procedures for functional and structural heart disease.
  • Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and mitral regurgitation are common clinical challenges.

Observation:

  • A female patient with HFrEF and severe mitral regurgitation received a comprehensive suite of device-based therapies.
  • Therapies included mitral transcatheter edge-to-edge repair, percutaneous mitral annuloplasty (Carillon device), temporary mechanical circulatory support, and a durable left ventricular assist device.

Findings:

  • The patient ultimately required cardiac transplantation following the failure of other interventions.
  • This case illustrates a stepwise progression through advanced heart failure management strategies.

Implications:

  • Understanding the indications and data for various device therapies is crucial for managing complex heart failure.
  • This case underscores the potential need for escalating mechanical circulatory support and transplantation in refractory cases.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Acute Coronary Syndrome IV: Interprofessional Care01:28

Acute Coronary Syndrome IV: Interprofessional Care

IntroductionThe management of Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) aims to minimize myocardial damage, preserve myocardial function, and prevent complications.Initial ManagementInpatient management involves continuous cardiac monitoring, preferably in an ICU, focusing on blood pressure, serum sodium, potassium, and creatinine levels, and urine output. Ongoing pharmacologic management is crucial for stabilizing the patient.Supplemental Oxygen: Administer supplemental oxygen if oxygen saturation is...
Acute Coronary Syndrome V: Nursing Management01:26

Acute Coronary Syndrome V: Nursing Management

Nursing Assessment:Nursing management of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) involves taking the patient's history, focusing on primary complaints such as chest pain, dyspnea, and excessive sweating (diaphoresis), as well as other symptoms like back or jaw pain, nausea, vomiting, palpitations, dizziness, and fatigue. The nurse also reviews the patient's history of cardiac events, risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, smoking, family history, and current medications.In the objective assessment,...
Introduction Cardiac Emergencies01:30

Introduction Cardiac Emergencies

Cardiac emergencies are critical situations involving the heart that require immediate medical intervention to prevent severe complications or death. These emergencies often arise from underlying heart conditions that impair the heart's ability to function correctly.Types of Cardiac EmergenciesThe most common types of cardiac emergencies include Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS), myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac arrest, and heart failure.Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)...
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy01:30

Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, is a progressive myocardial disorder characterized by ventricular chamber dilation and contractile dysfunction.EtiologyVarious factors can cause DCM, including hypertension and heavy alcohol intake, which contribute to the weakening and enlargement of the heart muscle. Viral infections, such as Coxsackievirus B, adenoviruses, and influenza, can lead to DCM by causing inflammation and damage to heart tissue. Certain chemotherapeutic agents, including daunorubicin,...
Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care01:29

Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care

Managing cardiomyopathy involves addressing underlying or precipitating causes, treating heart failure with medications, and implementing dietary changes and a balanced exercise and rest regimen.Lifestyle ModificationsCardiomyopathy patients should adopt a low-sodium diet to reduce fluid retention and manage heart failure. A personalized exercise and rest plan helps maintain physical fitness without overstraining the heart. Avoiding alcohol and tobacco is essential to prevent further damage to...
Cardiomyopathy VI: Nursing Management01:29

Cardiomyopathy VI: Nursing Management

Assessment: Nursing management of patients with cardiomyopathy begins with a thorough assessment of the patient's history, including a family history of cardiomyopathy or sudden cardiac death, personal history of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and any alcohol consumption or drug use.During the physical examination, assess vital signs, look for signs of heart failure (such as edema, jugular venous distention, and cyanosis), auscultate for abnormal heart sounds (like murmurs and gallops),...