Medium to long-term ventricular assist device support in adults with congenital heart disease

Abstract

Heart failure is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in adults with congenital heart disease. However, for many in this population, heart transplantation is not possible or requires longer wait times, necessitating prolonged circulatory support. The medium to long-term durable ventricular assist device therapy provides a possible solution. We analyzed outcomes of 9 patients with congenital heart disease and at least 3 years of durable mechanical support, all age 18 or older at the time of ventricular assist device implantation at our affiliated pediatric and adult hospitals. Palliated congenital anatomies varied and included biventricular physiologies as well as single ventricles with Fontan circulation. The median duration of support was 4.2 years, including 3 patients successfully bridged to transplant, averaging 2.1 years on the waitlist. Device-related complications were infrequent with HeartMate 3, a feasible and sustainable option for either bridge to transplant or destination strategies in adults with congenital heart disease.