Acute decompensated right heart failure (ADRFH) often proves refractory to medical
therapy that includes measures such as pulmonary vasodilators, systemic vasopressors,
and inotropes (see also Chap. 10) oxygen therapy and (where appropriate)
balloon atrial septostomy. In this chapter, we will discuss the use of mechanical
circulatory support devices (MCSD) to sustain the failing right ventricle (RV). We
will focus in particular on the role of extracorporeal life support (ECLS) and innovative
device therapies in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH), most of
whom are candidates for bridge to transplant (and occasionally bridge to recovery)
strategies.
Right ventricular assist devices
L Punnoose, MA Simon, D Burkhoff and EM Horn
In: The Right Ventricle in Health and Disease, edited by NF Voelkel and D Schranz. New York: Humana Press, 2015:439-454