TriVAD: Successful use of Impella 5.5 and Protek Duo CentriMag RVAD following Heartware HVAD thrombosis as a bridge to heart transplant

Introduction Pump thrombosis remains a feared complication following placement of durable left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) and can be particularly detrimental to individuals being bridged to heart transplantation. Complications associated with this malfunction not only increase morbidity related to right heart failure, hemolysis, and other organ failure, but may ultimately jeopardize a patient’s heart transplant candidacy. Additionally, reoperation for durable ventricular device replacement not only poses additional surgical risks to patients but can potentially complicate or even prohibit transplantation in the future. Case report This case report describes a novel configuration of temporary, groin-free, percutaneously-deployed biventricular mechanical circulatory devices to support a patient with biventricular failure due to partial LVAD thrombosis. Discussion/conclusion The use of less invasive mechanical support measures, such as the approach described here, may help patients achieve adequate hemodynamic support while allowing them to remain ambulatory and facilitate successful bridging to heart transplantation.