General surgery considerations in the era of mechanical circulatory assist devices

Limael E Rodriguez; Erik E Suarez; Matthias Loebe; Brian A Bruckner

doi:10.1016/j.suc.2013.08.004

General surgery considerations in the era of mechanical circulatory assist devices

Surg Clin North Am. 2013 Dec;93(6):1343-57. doi: 10.1016/j.suc.2013.08.004.

Authors

Limael E Rodriguez¹, Erik E Suarez, Matthias Loebe, Brian A Bruckner

Affiliation

¹ Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6550 Fannin Street, Suite 1401, Houston, TX 77030, USA.

PMID: 24206855
DOI: 10.1016/j.suc.2013.08.004

Abstract

Much of the success of left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) can be attributed to the second-generation HeartMate II (Thoratec, Pleasanton, CA, USA), which is the most commonly used device to date. The latest generation of LVADs is currently undergoing clinical trials worldwide. Developers have focused on improving the limitations of the second generation with emphasis on enhancing efficiency further, decreasing complications, and increasing ease of implantability. Clinical management of a patient with an LVAD is also an excellent example of the multidisciplinary approach of care that is undoubtedly the future of medicine.

Keywords: General surgery; LVAD; Left ventricular assist device; Mechanical circulatory support; Noncardiac surgery.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Elective Surgical Procedures* / mortality
Equipment Design
Heart Failure / epidemiology*
Heart Failure / therapy
Heart-Assist Devices*
Humans
Patient Care Team
Patient Selection*
Risk Assessment
Risk Factors