ASAIO journal : a peer-reviewed journal of the American Society for Artificial Internal Organs
-
Implantable continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have improved the survival of end-stage heart failure patients. Recent studies have shown an increased occurrence of device replacement in the axial flow pumps particularly for thrombosis. ⋯ Technically, this requires some adaption of the LVAD inflow and outflow connections. We describe our technique and outcomes in patients who underwent the conversion from an axial flow LVAD to a centrifugal flow LVAD.