Betreuung von patienten an linksventrikulären unterstü tzungssystemen mittels koordinator: Erfahrungen des Methodist DeBakey Heart Centers

Translated title of the contribution: LVAD coordinator effects on outcomes in patients undergoing LVAD implantation: The Methodist DeBakey Heart Center experience

Matthias Loebe, Christian A. Skrabal, Richard R. Roberts, Ahmet Akgul, Larry O. Thompson, George P. Noon, Michael E. DeBakey, Michael M. Koerner, Guillermo Torre

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Use of left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) for support of endstage heart failure patients as a bridge to cardiac transplantation creates opportunities both for improved patient survival rate and for lower peri-operative complications. We investigated the effect on patient outcomes and incidence of complication of assigning an LVAD coordinator for heightened clinical monitoring and patient management in this population. Methods: Between June 2000 and January 2002, 28 patients with terminal heart failure underwent LVAD implantation, 14 patients prior to LVAD-coordinator employment and 14 patients under supervision of the LVAD coordinator. Patients' records were retrospectively analyzed for incidence of infection, life-threatening thromboembolic and bleeding events, and hospital charges. Results: In the pre-coordinator group, two patients were discharged home while on LVAD support. Seven patients (50%) developed infections requiring antibiotic treatment; five patients (35%) had severe life-threatening thromboembolic events. Six patients were transplanted and eight patients died while on LVAD support, giving an overall survival of 42% in this group. In the post-coordinator group, seven patients were discharged home while on LVAD support. Four patients developed infections, one patient had a severe life-threatening thromboembolic event. Ten patients were successfully transplanted, one patient is currently supported on the device, and 3 patients died, for an overall survival of 78% in this group. Conclusion: The use of a fulltime professional coordinator has had a beneficial impact on patient outcomes. Patient survival was improved, device-related complications were reduced and eligible patients could be discharged safely from the hospital.

Translated title of the contributionLVAD coordinator effects on outcomes in patients undergoing LVAD implantation: The Methodist DeBakey Heart Center experience
Original languageGerman
Pages (from-to)52-56
Number of pages5
JournalZeitschrift fur Herz-, Thorax- und Gefasschirurgie
Volume18
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2004

Keywords

  • Left ventricular assist devices
  • LVAD coordinator
  • Transplantation

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'LVAD coordinator effects on outcomes in patients undergoing LVAD implantation: The Methodist DeBakey Heart Center experience'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this