Background. The BVS 5000i external pulsatile assist device is used to suppo
rt patients with reversible cardiogenic shock. Its low cost and potential f
or insertion without cardiopulmonary bypass make it an attractive option.
Methods. Nineteen status I patients failing inotropic support were treated
with the BVS 5000i with the intention of short-term bridge to transplant. F
ourteen patients received left: ventricular support whereas 5 received bive
ntricular support. Cardiopulmonary bypass was used in less than 50% of pati
ents.
Results. Median support time was 7 days. The 2 myocarditis patients were we
aned from support. Twelve patients were transplanted and there were 5 death
s on support. Overall 14 of 19 were transplanted or weaned. One-year surviv
al was 79%. Median hospital stay was 31 days.
Conclusions. The BVS 5000i can be used for short-term mechanical assist tow
ard transplantation in selected patients for whom a donor can be expected s
oon. The device may provide a cost-effective, short-term strategy to optimi
ze end-organ function before orthotopic heart transplant, particularly for
patients who are predictably not ideal to be discharged with implantable le
ft ventricular assist device treatment. (Ann Thorac Surg 2000;70:59-66) (C)
2000 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.