Increased intrathoracic impedance may predict adverse events in LVAD patients

J Card Surg. 2013 Sep;28(5):616-8. doi: 10.1111/jocs.12191. Epub 2013 Aug 4.

Abstract

We describe a 36-year-old male with a HeartWare LVAD and a Medtronic Virtuoso DR pacemaker in whom increased intrathoracic impedance preceded suction events, low LVAD flows, symptoms of a heart failure exacerbation, and hospitalization. Measurement of intrathoracic impedance may identify fluid shifts prior to symptoms and predict adverse events in patients with an LVAD.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Body Weight / physiology
  • Cardiography, Impedance / methods*
  • Disease Progression
  • Fluid Shifts / physiology
  • Forecasting
  • Heart Failure / physiopathology*
  • Heart Failure / therapy*
  • Heart-Assist Devices / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Hypovolemia / diagnosis
  • Hypovolemia / etiology
  • Male
  • Monitoring, Physiologic
  • Pacemaker, Artificial
  • Thorax / physiology*