[Experience of weaning from left ventricular assist system in an acutely-ill patient with dilated cardiomyopathy and...

A 21-year-old man with dilated cardiomyopathy recovered from terminal heart failure with the long-term use of the left ventricular assist system (LVAS). His heart failure was refractory to maximum medical therapy including beta-blockade and intravenous catecholamines. Application of LVAS restored renal and hepatic function and even cardiac function. Left ventricular size decreased from 79 to 57 mm, and cardiac index increased from 1.6 to 2.2 l/min/m2. After 6 weeks of LVAS application, he could walk in the ward and could start exercise on a bicycle ergometer 3 months after. Ninety-five days after implantation, the LVAS could be removed. His general condition remained good and stable for more than a year after the removal of the LVAS. Timely application of LVAS seems to be one of the most important factors for successful circulatory support. Detailed criteria for LVAS application are not established yet.