Abstract

LEVIN, Ricardo et al. Antegrade Use of Intra-aortic Balloon Pump as Bridge to Transplantation. Rev. argent. cardiol. [online]. 2014, vol.82, n.4, pp.292-296. ISSN 1850-3748.

Introduction The possibility of prolonged circulatory assistance on the waiting list for heart transplantation has associated complications. Different from the conventional access, antegrade balloon pump implantation through the subclavian artery could avoid or, at least, limit the adverse effects of assistance. Objective: The aim of this study was to consider circulatory support using intra-aortic balloon pump implantation through the left subclavian artery as bridge to transplantation. Methods Patients on the waiting list for heart transplantation with acute decompensation and expected prolonged waiting interval received antegrade balloon pump implantation through the left subclavian artery. Results: Between August 2007 and July 2012, 38 patients underwent uneventful antegrade balloon pump implantation. Twenty-nine patients (76.3%) were transplanted under circulatory support and 9 patients required transition to more complex support techniques. Among these patients 5 (13.2%) were transplanted while the other 4 (10.5%) died. Average circulatory assistance with intra-aortic balloon pump was 24 days (5 to 68 days) during which the majority of patients were able to move and even ambulate. Observed complications were low; 1 patient (2.6%) developed a big local hematoma, 1 (2.6%) presented catheter rupture and replacement, and 1 (2.6%) experienced distal pulse loss which was managed in a conservative way. Hemodynamic assessment before and after implantation showed improved systolic function (cardiac output and cardiac index) and reduced filling pressures. Conclusions Selected patients with decompensated end-stage heart failure could be stabilized and supported for a prolonged period of time using intra-aortic balloon pump implanted through the subclavian artery. This technique was associated with a low number of complications and, different from the conventional retrograde access, it allowed mobility in the majority of patients while awaiting transplantation.

Keywords : Intra-aorüc Balloon Pumpmg; Heart Transplantatíon; Heart Faüure.

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