Prediction, prevention, and management of right ventricular failure after left ventricular assist device implantation: A comprehensive review

Rodenas-Alesina E., Brahmbhatt D. H., Rao V., Salvatori M., Billia F.

Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, vol.9, 2022 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Review
  • Volume: 9
  • Publication Date: 2022
  • Doi Number: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.1040251
  • Journal Name: Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, EMBASE, Directory of Open Access Journals
  • Keywords: left ventricular assist device (LVAD), heart failure (HF), right ventricle (RV), right ventricular failure (RVF), right ventricular assist device (RVAD), hemocompatibility adverse events (HRAE)
  • TED University Affiliated: No

Abstract

Copyright © 2022 Rodenas-Alesina, Brahmbhatt, Rao, Salvatori and Billia.Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are increasingly common across the heart failure population. Right ventricular failure (RVF) is a feared complication that can occur in the early post-operative phase or during the outpatient follow-up. Multiple tools are available to the clinician to carefully estimate the individual risk of developing RVF after LVAD implantation. This review will provide a comprehensive overview of available tools for RVF prognostication, including patient-specific and right ventricle (RV)-specific echocardiographic and hemodynamic parameters, to provide guidance in patient selection during LVAD candidacy. We also offer a multidisciplinary approach to the management of early RVF, including indications and management of right ventricular assist devices in this setting to provide tools that help managing the failing RV.