Comprehensive Analysis of Long-Term Outcomes after HeartMate 3 LVAD Implantation Depending on Surgical Access

Purpose The goal of this project is to assess the safety, possibility and effectiveness of minimally invasive HeartMate 3 LVAD implantation. Methods Our retrospective, single-center study included patients implanted with the HM3 LVAD between November 2016 and May 2020. The patients were divided into two groups depending on the surgical access: minimall invasive (MI) or full sternotomy (FS). The primary outcomes was heart regeneration, heart transplantation or death. We compared 30, 60, 180 days, 1 and 2 years survival. Secondary outcomes included peri- and postoperative complications, right heart-, respiratory-, renal- or liver failure, blood product utilization, ICU-, total hospital stay, bleeding and infection events. Results Of 73 patients implanted with the HM3 LVAD, 26 (35,61%) were implanted via MI and 47 (64,38%) via FS access. A previous heart surgery was more likely in MI group 54% vs. 12%; p Conclusion MI technique may be safe, possible and effective for HeartMate 3 LVAD implantation, even as redo cardiac surgery.