Pediatric circulatory support systems.
Ventricular assist devices (VADs) are a valid option for long term circulatory support in pediatric patients with postoperative myocardial failure or debilitating heart defects. Most clinical experience to date has involved the short-term support of patients weighing 6 kg and larger. For cases of VAD implementation in pediatric patients, the assist device showed tremendous promise in reversing cardiac failure and providing adequate support as a bridge to cardiac transplantation. The Medos-HIA system, Berlin Heart, Medtronic Bio-Medicus Pump, Abiomed BVS 5000, Toyobo-Zeon pumps, and Hemopumps have proven successful for short-term circulatory support for the pediatric population. The Jarvik 2000 and Pierce-Donachy pediatric system further demonstrate the potential to be used for pediatric circulatory support. The clinical and experimental success of these support systems provide encouragement to believe that long-term support is possible.
Throckmorton
Amy L
AL
Biomedical Engineering Department, Virginia Artificial Heart Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville 22903-2442, USA.
Allaire
Paul E
PE
Gutgesell
Howard P
HP
Matherne
Gaynell P
GP
Olsen
Don B
DB
Wood
Houston G
HG
Allaire
Janet H
JH
Patel
Sonna M
SM
D002648:Child; D015199:Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation; D006353:Heart-Assist Devices; D006801:Humans; D007423:Intra-Aortic Balloon Pumping