Diagnosis and management of left ventricular assist device valve-endocarditis: LVAD valve replacement.

de Jonge, K C; Laube, H R; Dohmen, P M; Ivancevic, V; Konertz, W F · Ann Thorac Surg · 2000

case_report · Level V

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Abstract

A 57-year-old man who has been wearing a Novacor N100 left ventricular assist device (LVAD) for more than 3 years suffered from LVAD endocarditis. Only by immunoscintigraphic methods was it possible to localize the septic focus. After successful exchange of in- and outflow tract valves, the infection was eradicated. Microscopic investigation confirmed the scintigraphic findings: Gram-positive bacteria were found. The valves showed no gross degenerative lesions after more than 1,100 days of implantation. The patient is now doing well.

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