Implantation of the Berlin Heart EXCOR ventricular assist device.

ABSTRACT

The Berlin Heart EXCOR® is a mechanical, pulsatile ventricular assist device. The paracorporeal assist device is pneumatically driven and can be used for long-term bridging therapy of one or both ventricles (LVAD, BIVAD, RVAD). It is specifically designed for pediatric patients and can be used in neonates as well as juveniles and adults.  The infant presented in this video tutorial was diagnosed with myocarditis leading to end-stage heart failure and severe mitral valve regurgitation. A bridging therapy was indicated and a Berlin Heart EXCOR® VAD was implanted. This tutorial provides detailed insight on how to perform this procedure. In addition, a safe and effective way of extending the outflow cannula is demonstrated.