Successful use of mechanical assist device for right ventricular failure after orthotopic heart transplantation

A 22-year-old woman underwent orthotopic heart transplantation, resulting in acute failure of the donor right ventricle caused by a raised pulmonary vascular resistance. This was successfully managed by mechanical assistance of the right ventricle, with use of a centrifugal pump. After a complicated early postoperative course, the patient made a complete recovery.