RESUMO
Nipro paracorporeal ventricular assist device( VAD) is often associated with pump thrombosis which causes severe complications such as brain infarction, often requiring pump change. However, Nipro VAD pump is an expensive device and it is difficult to change pumps frequently at a short interval. We have temporarily used Rotaflow centrifugal pump for recurrent pump thrombosis in patients with Nipro VADs. From January 2012 through December 2013, 19 patients underwent Nipro VADs implantation at our institution, and 9 of them underwent pump change from Nipro pumps to Rotaflow centrifugal pumps. A total of 25 Rotaflow centrifugal pumps were used in these 9 patients, with the total circulatory support duration of 526 days. The median support period was 15 days (range;2-128 days). There were 2 cerebrovascular accidents and 1 Rotaflow pump circuit thrombosis during this period. Change from Rotaflow to Nipro VAD pump resulted in decrease in hematocrit by about 3 point. There was no difference in liver or renal function between before and after the pump change. Our results suggest that temporary use of Rotaflow centrifugal pump for recurrent pump thrombosis in patients with Nipro VADs may be a promising alternative.
