Successful support of the right ventricle following orthotopic heart transplantation using the Abiomed BVS 5000 system: A case report

Abstract

Acute right ventricular failure following orthotopic heart transplantation can occur in patients with elevated pulmonary artery pressure with high pulmonary vascular resistance. The result can lead to graft dysfunction and patient death if not managed aggressively. Successful restoration of cardiac hemodynamics was observed with reduction in pulmonary artery pressure and central venous pressure following right ventricular assist device placement. We describe the successful support of the right ventricle following orthotopic heart transplantation using the pneumatically driven Abiomed BVS 5000 system.