Temporary mechanical support in the peripartum patient as a bridge to postpartum recovery: A report of three cases

Artif Organs. 2024 Oct;48(10):1211-1214. doi: 10.1111/aor.14832. Epub 2024 Jul 18.

Abstract

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a severe complication of peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM). Patients with deteriorating CS often require temporary mechanical circulatory support. In PPCM, this can be used as a bridge to postpartum recovery or bridge to decision. The outcomes are unclear, especially if prolonged utilization is required. We present a case series of three patients with PPCM in deteriorating CS who were successfully supported with a ventricular assist device or veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation as a bridge to postpartum recovery.

Keywords: cardiogenic shock; peripartum cardiomyopathy; temporary mechanical support.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cardiomyopathies / complications
  • Cardiomyopathies / therapy
  • Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation* / methods
  • Female
  • Heart-Assist Devices*
  • Humans
  • Peripartum Period*
  • Postpartum Period
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Cardiovascular / therapy
  • Shock, Cardiogenic* / etiology
  • Shock, Cardiogenic* / therapy
  • Treatment Outcome