Right Ventricular Failure Following Acute Type A Aortic Dissection: An Alternative Strategy

Abstract

Coronary malperfusion is a complication of aortic dissection, and can lead to ventricular failure. We report 2 cases of right ventricular (RV) failure, following aortic dissection, successfully bridged to recovery using right ventricular assist devices (RVADs). The first was a 54 year-old man, who had difficulty weaning from bypass due to a stunned RV following aortic root replacement. The second was a 34 year-old woman, who after replacement of the ascending aorta, suffered episodes of ventricular fibrillation (VF), and RV failure. Both had an RVAD implanted, allowing eventual recovery. We recommend more widespread use of VADs in such cases.