NOVACOR LEFT VENTRICULAR ASSIST SYSTEM AS A BRIDGE TO CARDIAC TRANSPLANTATION;RIGHT VENTRICULAR FUNCTIONAL CHANGE

Abstract

To evaluate the function of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) hemodynamically, seven patients were devided into three groups according to the assisted period and clinical course. Three patients were weaned from the LVAD within 48 hours (early recovered group: R), two were assisted for 74 to 127 hours (intermediate group: M) and two were assisted for 252 to 329 hours (delayed group: S). R group showed significant higher total cardiac output (more than 3 l/min/ m²) and lower pulmonary wedge pressure and right atrial pressure (less than 10 mmHg) than the other two groups. Mean assist flow by LVAD was 2.47±0.3 l/min during 48 hours in 4 cases with the Sac type LVAD and this value was not changed by driving condition, both atrial pressures and native cardiac output. To prevent multiple organ failure after application of LVAD, it is necessary to maintain the sufficient total cardiac output (more than 3 l/min/ m²) and assist flow (more than 4 l/min).