Abstract
Summary The mortality of cardiogenic shock (CS) after an acute myocardial infarction (AMI) still remains high. Thrombolysis, PTCA or CABG, when possible, can improve the results, but when all the treatments fail death is almost certain. Objective We investigate the use of the mechanical circulatory assistance (MCA) and heart transplantation (HT) to improve the adverse results in this irreversible situation. Methods Among 11 patients with irreversible CS after an AMI we used a MCA (Abiomed BVS-5000). After improvement and hemodynamic stabilization, we performed heart transplantation in 7 patients of mean age 52 years (35–60) including two women. The MCA was univentricular in 7 patients and biventricular in 4. Mean duration of the MCA was 5 days (1–12). Results Three patients died during the MCA: two due to cerebrovascular accidents and one multiorgan failure. Weaning was possible in one patient. Among Seven transplanted patients one died due to sepsis. Seven (64%) patients are long-term survivors. Conclusion When all the treatments have failed for CS after an AMI, MCA may be used as a bridge to heart transplantation in a select group of patients where the procedure is not contraindicated. The long-term results of 64% survivors in our experience is satisfactory.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
