Extended support with permanent systems: percutaneous versus totally implantable.
Use of circulatory support devices in patients awaiting heart transplantation has provided information about the long-term use of these devices. The Novacor left ventricular assist system has proved reliable for long-term support. The main problems with its use are infection and thromboembolism, but neither seems to prohibit long-term use. Problems with compliance chambers are not as great as previously thought. These results suggest that implantation of a permanent, totally implantable left ventricular assist device in lieu of transplantation is feasible.
Pennington
D G
DG
Department of Surgery, St. Louis University Medical Center, Missouri, USA.
D000818:Animals; D016027:Heart Transplantation; D006353:Heart-Assist Devices / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D013997:Time Factors