A new off-pump technique for thoratec right ventricular assist device insertion

The need for right ventricular support as an adjunct to left ventricular as sistance is uncommon. When required, the insertion of a right ventricular a ssist device may be complicated by preexisting hepatic dysfunction, coagula tion abnormalities, and renal failure, all of which are exacerbated by card iopulmonary bypass. We report a technique for insertion of a right ventricu lar assist device without the need for cardiopulmonary bypass. (Ann Thorac Surg 2001;71:1719-20) (C) 2001 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.