title: Surgical Technique to Facilitate Explantation of Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices: LVADs, BiVADs, and TAHs Before Heart Transplantation.
abstract: Thoughtful preparation of the surgical field at the time of initial mechanical circulatory support (MCS) implantation has the potential for decreasing operative time and surgical risk of subsequent heart transplantation. It sets the stage for expeditious, safe sternal reentry, and identification of structures necessary for initiation of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB).
authors.affiliation: From the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, California.
authors.forename: Kai A
authors.initials: KA
authors.lastname: Ihnken
authors.forename: Danny
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Ramzy
authors.forename: Fardad
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Esmailian
authors.forename: Alfredo
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Trento
authors.forename: Francisco A
authors.initials: FA
authors.lastname: Arabía
mesh_terms: D013504:Cardiovascular Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D020878:Device Removal / Q000379:methods*; D016027:Heart Transplantation; D006353:Heart-Assist Devices; D006801:Humans