Abstract 19112: Hemodynamic Optimization of Left Ventricular Assist Devices During Right Heart Catheterization Ramp Studies

Abstract

Background: Studies have shown that hemodynamic LVAD ramp studies can be used to optimize speeds and improve clinical outcomes, yet these studies lack external validation. Methods: 470 LVAD patients, including 3 LVAD subtypes, were retrospectively analyzed and 53 ramp studies were identified. Measurements (RA, mean PA, PCWP, and CI) were taken at speeds +/- 20% of the manufacturer recommended set speed for HM2, HM3, and HVAD devices. Primary outcomes were all-cause and heart failure (HF) hospitalizations in the 6-month period pre- and post-ramp study. Secondary outcomes included final LVAD speed and hemodynamic measurements following ramp study. Time to first hospitalization and cumulative incidence rate of all-cause and HF hospitalization were reported. Results: Baseline characteristics of 53 studies included: mean age of 60.1 (+/- 10.9), 84.9% male, 56.6% ischemic etiology, 71.7% destination therapy, and average NYHA class and INTERMACS of 2.5 (+/- 0.7) and 5.9 (+/- 1), respectively. 38 of 53 studies (71.7%) showed PCWP decompression >20%, with average PCWP decompression of 51.2% (+/- 21.0%), and CI increase of 22.5% (+/- 18.7%). Optimal LVAD speeds were chosen to maintain CI > 2.2, PCWP < 15 and minimize RAP, in the absence of suction events. 31 (58.5%) of studies resulted in an LVAD speed change and 16 (30.2%) of studies resulted in diuretic change. All-cause and HF hospitalizations were significantly decreased in the 6-months following ramp studies compared the 6-months pre-ramp (total days hospitalized for all causes: 12.0 vs 26.6, p=0.002; total days hospitalized for HF, 4.8 vs 22.1, p=0.0003). Speed changes were associated with a nonsignificant improvement in time to first hospitalization. Conclusion: This externally validates previous data suggesting that LVAD hemodynamic ramp studies decrease hospitalizations. Larger studies and longer follow up may elucidate specific hemodynamic targets to improve mortality and further reduce rehospitalizations.