Objective: The Impella 5.0 is a peripherally inserted short-term left ventricular assist device. It is typically inserted through a large peripheral artery such as the common femoral artery. We describe both a graft technique and a purse-string technique in detail.
Methods: In the course of introducing this technology to our hospital, we independently developed two techniques for the insertion of the device. These novel insertion techniques are different from those described by the manufacturer.
Results: The techniques described have distinct advantages that may be helpful to physicians inserting the device. Common areas of difficulty with insertion of the device and solutions to these problems are also described.
Conclusions: Insertion techniques for the Impella 5.0 are described in detail.