Current management of left ventricular assist device erosion

J Card Surg. 2013 Nov;28(6):776-82. doi: 10.1111/jocs.12207. Epub 2013 Sep 4.

Abstract

Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) pocket infection is a serious and potentially fatal complication. Not infrequently, the device erodes externally through the thoracoabdominal wall or internally into the peritoneum. In this article, we report two cases to illustrate the presentation and challenges associated with management of LVAD-pocket infection and wound necrosis. Afterward, we review the current therapeutic strategies for LVAD erosion.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Wall
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / administration & dosage
  • Device Removal
  • Drainage
  • Heart Ventricles
  • Heart-Assist Devices / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Peritoneum
  • Prosthesis Failure / adverse effects*
  • Prosthesis-Related Infections / diagnosis
  • Prosthesis-Related Infections / etiology*
  • Prosthesis-Related Infections / prevention & control
  • Prosthesis-Related Infections / therapy*
  • Pseudomonas Infections / diagnosis
  • Pseudomonas Infections / etiology*
  • Pseudomonas Infections / prevention & control
  • Pseudomonas Infections / therapy*
  • Surgical Procedures, Operative
  • Thoracic Wall
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents