ASAIO journal : a peer-reviewed journal of the American Society for Artificial Internal Organs
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Our new Virtual Mock Loop (VML) is a mathematical model designed to simulate the human cardiovascular system and gauge performance of mechanical circulatory support devices. We aimed to mimic the hemodynamic performance of Cleveland Clinic's self-regulating continuous-flow total artificial heart (CFTAH) via VML and evaluate VML's accuracy versus bench data from our standard mock circulatory loop. The VML reproduced 23 hemodynamic conditions. ⋯ Virtual Mock Loop successfully reproduced results from our mock circulatory loop of CFTAH test conditions. The CFTAH's self-regulation feature of right pump performance was also calculated effectively. We foresee using versions of the VML for training, simulating physiologic cardiac conditions, and patient monitoring.
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Ventricular assist device (VAD) implantation has improved quality of life and short-term survival for advanced heart failure patients. There are limited data from single-center studies addressing the characteristics and etiologies of 30 day readmissions after VAD implant. We used the Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD) 2014 to identify insertion of implantable heart assist system during index admission. ⋯ Fifty percent of 30 day readmissions were readmitted from day 22 to 30. Variables for predictors of 30 day readmissions were not statistically significant. By identifying gastrointestinal bleeding, heart failure, and device complications as leading etiologies of 30 day readmission post-VAD implantation, providers can potentially modify practices to prevent hospital readmissions, decreasing cost of care, and improving the quality of life of patients.
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Ambulation while on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is critical to facilitate native pulmonary recovery for patients with acute respiratory failure and is a prerequisite for listing for lung transplantation to achieve optimal outcomes. The development of a bicaval dual-lumen cannula capable of providing venovenous (VV) ECMO support via the internal jugular vein has greatly facilitated ambulation and rehabilitation programs. But cannula dislodgement is a serious concern with ambulation and rehabilitation, especially when minor cannula migration can significantly impact VV-ECMO flow. We review an optimal technique to secure dual-lumen cannula to facilitate early mobility, ambulation, and rehabilitation and prevent ECMO cannula dislodgement.