Case Report

Successful Bi-Ventricular Abiomed Support in a Coronary Artery Bypass/Mitral Valve Replacement Patient

Williamsport Hospital and Medical Center, Perfusion Services Department and Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Williamsport, Pennsylvania

^* Address correspondence to: Katherine D. Swoyer, BS, RN, CCP, Perfusion Services Department, Susquehanna Health System, Williamsport Hospital Campus, 777 Rural Avenue, Williamsport, PA 17701

Abstract

The Abiomed Bi-Ventricular Support System is recommended for patients with post-cardiotomy ventricular dysfunction who have undergone successful cardiac surgery, and then subsequently develop low cardiac output, impairing hemodynamic stability. Stagnant blood flow from ventricular unloading increases the potential for thrombus formation on artificial surfaces of ventricular assist devices and mechanical valves. This case discusses the management of a patient successfully weaned from Abiomed bi-ventricular support following coronary artery bypass and mitral valve replacement with a mechanical prosthesis. We will also describe the management of a console failure that occurred before device explantation.