Multimodal temporary mechanically circulatory assistance for primary graft dysfunction after heart transplantation: a case report

Abstract Background Primary graft dysfunction (PGD) remains a serious complication after heart transplantation (HTx). Although there is no therapy available, veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) may be a bailout strategy in selected cases. Especially in patients with severe bi...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:European heart journal : case reports 2021-12, Vol.5 (12), p.ytab501
Main Authors: Immohr, Moritz B, Lichtenberg, Artur, Akhyari, Payam, Boeken, Udo
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Care and treatment
Case Report
Complications and side effects
Heart
Heart failure
Medical equipment and supplies industry
Medical research
Medical test kit industry
Medicine, Experimental
Transplantation
Type 2 diabetes
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Summary:Abstract Background Primary graft dysfunction (PGD) remains a serious complication after heart transplantation (HTx). Although there is no therapy available, veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) may be a bailout strategy in selected cases. Especially in patients with severe biventricular failure, chances of survival remain poor. Case summary Here, we report a case of a 56-year-old patient suffering from severe PGD after HTx with biventricular failure (ejection fraction < 20%) who was successfully bridged to recovery of the donor graft by temporary multimodal mechanically circulatory assistance by combining both, VA-ECMO and a microaxial pump (Impella®, Abiomed, Inc., Danvers, MA, USA), a concept also referred as ECMELLA. During ECMELLA support, the patient experienced multiple severe thoracic bleeding complications with need for four re-thoracotomies and temporary open chest situation. Nevertheless, ventricular function recovered and the patient could be weaned from mechanical circulatory support after 12 days. During follow-up, the patient recovered and was successfully discharged. After the following rehabilitation, the patient now shows no persistent signs of heart failure with normal biventricular function of the cardiac graft. Discussion ECMELLA may offer a therapeutic option for patients with severe PGD after HTx. Special awareness and further studies addressing targeted anticoagulation strategies for patients on dual-mechanical support are needed to diminish the incidence of bleeding complications.
ISSN:2514-2119
2514-2119
DOI:10.1093/ehjcr/ytab501