Matching the mechanical circulatory support device to the child with heart failure.
A number of mechanical circulatory support devices are currently available for the treatment of children with heart failure refractory to medical therapy. Patient size, the acute versus chronic nature of the heart failure that is present, and the underlying anatomy and physiology define the clinical setting in any given case. Determining which device most effectively meets the specific needs of the clinical setting requires an understanding of the characteristics of each of the available devices. This report describes a graphic representation of the clinical setting in which pediatric heart failure occurs to provide a decision-making framework for the selection of the most appropriate mechanical circulatory support device.
Duncan
Brian W
BW
Department of Pediatric and Congenital Heart Surgery, Children's Hospital, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195, USA.
D049628:Body Size; D002648:Child; D003657:Decision Making; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000601:surgery*; D006353:Heart-Assist Devices; D006801:Humans