Urgent device retrieval using partial left heart bypass

Abstract

Percutaneous cardiovascular device implantation plays an important and increasing role in the treatment of congenital heart disease. Device related complications of malposition and embolisation are uncommon and can usually be retrieved by catheter. We present two interesting cases in which migrated devices resulted in thoracic aortic obstruction; both were refractory to percutaneous retrieval. Device retrieval was achieved by thoracotomy and utilising partial left heart bypass because of specific concerns of distal perfusion. Our experience is presented. © 2011 Published by European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery.