Williams M R, Quaegebeur J M, Hsu D T, Addonizio L J, Kichuk M R, Oz M C
Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA.
Ann Thorac Surg. 1996 Aug;62(2):578-80.
A 5 1/2-year-old boy with idiopathic cardiomyopathy and rapidly worsening hemodynamic parameters underwent placement of a biventricular assist device as a bridge to transplantation. Direct anastomoses to both the aorta and pulmonary artery with Dacron grafts attached to Carmeda-coated tubing facilitated the support period. Inflow was provided by right atrial appendage and left ventricular apex cannulas. A centrifugal pump provided support for 2 days until a suitable donor was identified. The technique is simple, reproducible, and effective for patients with small body surface areas.
