Impella 5.5 support before, during, and after surgical ventricular septal defect repair: A bridge continuum.

Abstract

Post-infarction ventricular septal defect formation remains a formidable mechanical complication of acute myocardial infarction associated with increased morbidity and mortality. We describe the case of a 72-year-old male who was admitted with post-myocardial infarction ventricular septal defect and cardiogenic shock. Impella 5.5 with SmartAssist as temporary left ventricular assist device provided sufficient support throughout multiple bridging episodes including failed percutaneous repair and subsequent definitive surgical repair. Contemporary management of post-infarction ventricular septal defect is discussed.