Bridge to transplantation with the wearable Novacor left ventricular assist system: operative technique

Abstract

Although the outcome of patients transplanted after univentricularcardiac support is similar to that of conventional patients, death on thedevice remains a substantial problem. The wearable Novacor left ventricularassist system (LVAS) may offer advantages over console- based systems byimproving rehabilitation before transplantation. For these advantages to berealised, however, a smooth perioperative course is necessary. We describeour operative technique, based on minimising blood loss and preservingright ventricular function, and the results in the first three patients tohave the wearable Novacor LVAS implanted in this institution.