Pulmonary artery balloon counterpulsation for intraoperative right ventricular failure.

Skillington, P D; Couper, G S; Peigh, P S; Fitzgerald, D; Cohn, L H · Ann Thorac Surg · 1991

case_report · Level V

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Abstract

Two cases of severe low cardiac output and right ventricular failure after coronary artery bypass grafting necessitated pulmonary artery balloon counterpulsation after intraaortic balloon pumping and maximal inotropic/pressor support were unsuccessful in maintaining a satisfactory cardiac output. Hemodynamic improvement was sufficient to allow removal of the device 2 and 3 days postoperatively, with survival in 1 patient. Pulmonary artery counterpulsation is less morbid in comparison with other mechanical methods of right ventricular support and is applicable in right ventricular failure of intermediate severity.

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