RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: To assess the outcomes of the use of the percutaneous Impella RP device (Abiomed, Danvers, MA) in adolescents and young adults. BACKGROUND: Results of the Impella RP device have been reported in adults, but a multicenter experience in adolescents and young adults has yet to be reported. METHODS: Patients ≤21 years of age who underwent implantation of an Impella RP device for refractory right heart failure from June, 2016 to April, 2018 at nine U.S. Centers were included. RESULTS: A total of 12 adolescents, median age of 18 (14-21) years and median weight 74.4 (49-112.4) kg underwent Impella RP implantation (INTERMACS Profile 1 in nine and Profile 2 in three patients. The central venous pressure decreased from 20 (16-35) to 12 (7-17) mmHg, (p = .001). One patient was concomitantly supported with an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) and the rest with a percutaneous/surgically placed left ventricular assist device. There was one adverse event related to the Impella RP device (thrombosis requiring explant). The support duration was 6.5 days (4.8 hr-18.4 days) and survival to hospital discharge was 83%. At a median follow-up of 11 months (5 days-2.5 years), 8 of 12 (67%) patients are alive. CONCLUSIONS: In this multicenter experience, the Impella RP device was found to be efficacious and safe when used in adolescents and young adults. Further studies are warranted to identify suitable young/pediatric candidates for Impella RP therapy for right heart failure.
