Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine (Nov 2022)

Prediction, prevention, and management of right ventricular failure after left ventricular assist device implantation: A comprehensive review

  • Eduard Rodenas-Alesina,
  • Eduard Rodenas-Alesina,
  • Eduard Rodenas-Alesina,
  • Darshan H. Brahmbhatt,
  • Darshan H. Brahmbhatt,
  • Darshan H. Brahmbhatt,
  • Vivek Rao,
  • Vivek Rao,
  • Marcus Salvatori,
  • Filio Billia,
  • Filio Billia

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fcvm.2022.1040251
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 9

Abstract

Read online

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are increasingly common across the heart failure population. Right ventricular failure (RVF) is a feared complication that can occur in the early post-operative phase or during the outpatient follow-up. Multiple tools are available to the clinician to carefully estimate the individual risk of developing RVF after LVAD implantation. This review will provide a comprehensive overview of available tools for RVF prognostication, including patient-specific and right ventricle (RV)-specific echocardiographic and hemodynamic parameters, to provide guidance in patient selection during LVAD candidacy. We also offer a multidisciplinary approach to the management of early RVF, including indications and management of right ventricular assist devices in this setting to provide tools that help managing the failing RV.

Keywords