American researchers report the successful implantation of a temporary Impella 5.5 endocavitary micro–pump developedby Abiomed:
- the patient was a 14–year–old boy with Duchenne muscular dystrophy,
- he had been transferred for treatment of cardiogenic shock in the context of decompensation of his cardiomyopathy.
- the implantable device was inserted through the right axillary artery into the left ventricle.
- It enabled rapid and substantial recovery of cardiac function in this adolescent.
The authors detail the technical adaptations necessary to optimise the method and emphasise that this is a temporary solution preceding the implementation of heavier and more durable ventricular assist devices.
