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Single-Center Experience with the HeartMate 3 Assist Device in Pediatric Patients with Cardiomyopathy

Michal Hulman1, Panagiotis Artemiou1, Danielle Stuschkova1

  • 1Department of Cardiac Surgery, National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Medical Faculty, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia.

Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)
|January 28, 2026
PubMed

Insights

The HeartMate 3 ventricular assist device (VAD) shows promise for pediatric heart transplant candidates. This single-centre study found it safe and effective, with successful bridging to transplant in most patients.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Pediatric Cardiac Surgery
  • Mechanical Circulatory Support

Background:

  • The HeartMate 3 (HM3) ventricular assist device (VAD) is increasingly used in pediatric patients with end-stage heart disease as a bridge to transplant.
  • This study details a single-center's experience with the HM3 device in this specific population.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the HeartMate 3 (HM3) ventricular assist device (VAD) in pediatric patients undergoing bridge to heart transplantation.
  • To report procedural, perioperative, and follow-up outcomes in this cohort.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of clinical data for pediatric patients (n=5, aged 10-16 years) implanted with the HM3 VAD between January 2022 and October 2025.
  • Analysis included procedural details, intensive care unit stay, complications, and transplant outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Five pediatric patients (median age 13 years) received HM3 VAD support (Pedimacs profiles 1-2).
  • Four patients experienced right ventricular dysfunction, managed conservatively or with temporary support.
  • Three patients were successfully bridged to heart transplantation; two remain on support. No mortality or pump-related complications occurred.

Conclusions:

  • The HeartMate 3 (HM3) ventricular assist device (VAD) is a safe and effective option for bridging pediatric patients to heart transplantation.
  • Right ventricular dysfunction is a frequent complication but manageable with appropriate interventions.

Keywords:
HeartMate 3 assist devicemechanical assist deviceoutcomes

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