Unexpected Twists: A 61-Year-Old Male with Repeated HeartMate II Complications andSubsequent Replacement with HeartMate III

Methodist Debakey Cardiovasc J. 2021 Apr 5;17(1):68-70. doi: 10.14797/ZIHS8416. Epub 2021 Mar 25.

Abstract

An outflow graft twist of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) remains a challenging clinical diagnosis and may even be misdiagnosed for other outflow obstructions. We present a case of a patient with two LVAD exchanges due to suspected outflow graft twisting in both clinical scenarios. As new LVADs continue to be designed and upgraded, clinicians must have a high index of suspicion for this rare complication.

Keywords: left ventricular assist devices; outflow graft rotation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Device Removal*
  • Heart Failure / diagnostic imaging
  • Heart Failure / physiopathology
  • Heart Failure / therapy*
  • Heart Valve Prosthesis*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prosthesis Design
  • Prosthesis Implantation / adverse effects
  • Prosthesis Implantation / instrumentation*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Ventricular Function, Left*