VADs successful for adolescents awaiting heart transplant

AHA Scientific Sessions 2011

ORLANDO, Fla. — Ventricular assist devices in adolescents waiting for a heart transplant are associated with similar, favorable outcomes when compared with 6-month survival rates of adults with ventricular assist devices, according to results presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2011.

From June 2006 to December 2010, 74 adolescents (34% girls) aged 21 years and younger awaiting heart transplant were enrolled in the Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support (INTERMACS). Researchers recorded and analyzed data before and during ventricular assist device (VAD) therapy. At baseline, 9% of adolescents had congenital heart disease and 91% had cardiomyopthay, acquired disease or another diagnosis.

Sixty-nine percent (n=51) of adolescents had LVADs, 28% (n=21) had bi-VADs and 3% (n=2) had total artificial hearts. Sixty-two percent of adolescents using a continuous flow device were aged 18 to 20 years; 41% of this age group used a pulsatile device.

At 6 months, 291 adverse events were observed: 82 infections; 72 major bleeds; 10 neurologic events 20 device malfunctions. Six months after implant, 55% of adolescents underwent transplant, 37% were alive on life support and 8% had died. Central nervous system thromboembolic events (4), infection (1), right ventricular failure (1), hemorrhage (1) and other (3) were noted as the causes of death.

According to the researchers, annual comparative INTERMACS analyses of smaller children supported with emerging pediatric-specific VADs will be possible as novel VADs become FDA-approved.

For more information:

Lowry A. Abstract #10088. Presented at: American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2011; Nov. 12-16, 2011; Orlando, Fla.

Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.

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