Ventricular assist device use with mechanical heart valves: an outcome series and literature review

Background. Management of postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock with a ventricular assist device (VAD) is a common and accepted therapeutic option. However, VAD use in patients with mechanical heart valves (MHVs) is thought to carry an increased risk of thromboembolus. We report a series of 7 patients with combined VAD-MHV and review the literature.

Methods. A retrospective review was performed on all patients who were supported with a ventricular assist device with a mechanical heart valve in place. A literature review was also performed from 1966 to 2000.

Results. Seven patients were identified from April 1988 to June 2000 as having VAD support with a MHV. One thromboembolic event was documented in the 7 patients (14%). Five of the 7 patients (71%) underwent VAD explantation. Overall survival rate was 3 of 7 (43%). Causes of death included heart failure, renal failure, multisystem organ failure, adult respiratory distress syndrome, and cerebral hypoxia. All patients who died had support withdrawn at the request of the family. All patients discharged are currently alive with length of survival of 3, 26, and 84 months.

Conclusions. This study suggests that this population’s rate of survival to discharge and risk of thromboembolus compare favorably to that of the general VAD population. We believe that anticoagulation can be managed as with any MHV patient and that flow rates can be kept slightly lower, which may encourage valve washing.