Pulmonary lobectomy in a patient with a left ventricular assist device

Ann Thorac Surg. 2009 Jun;87(6):1934-6. doi: 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2008.10.034.

Abstract

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are increasingly being used as both bridge-to-transplantation and destination therapy in patients with severe congestive heart failure. Performing noncardiac surgical procedures in patients with LVADs represents a unique challenge given the anatomic, hemodynamic, and hematologic considerations in these patients. We present the case of a man with an LVAD who successfully underwent right upper lobectomy for a pulmonary nodule. The literature on thoracic surgery procedures in LVAD patients and the intraoperative and postoperative management of these patients are also reviewed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Heart-Assist Devices*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pneumonectomy / methods*
  • Solitary Pulmonary Nodule / surgery*