Intraventricular pledgetted sutures to prevent suction events in patients with the heartware left ventricular assist device.

Abstract

Suction events are among the frequently encountered issues after the implantation of a left ventricular assist device and may induce malignant arrhythmias. Several factors may play a role in inducing these suction events. A proper inflow cannula insertion site at the time of surgery, particularly in hypertrophic left ventricles, plays a significant role in the prevention of these events. We describe a novel technique that helps avoid future suction events through the application of several intraventricular pledgetted sutures that displace the intraventricular muscle away from the inflow cannula, change the left ventricular geometry, and provide more room around the inflow cannula.